MIA, Hickam Air Force Base
by Michael S. Chu
13 Sept. 1999
All photos courtesy Michael Chu
With diplomatic relationships between the US and Vietnam progressing,
a small but steady stream of the more than 2000 American MIA remains
are being gradually reunited with their families.
Known as the Joint Task Force for Full Accountability, a small but highly dedicated group of military specialist, have
been conducting operations from Hawaii into Vietnam, Cambodia
and Laos. Acting first on research information, the Joint Task
Force sends out small groups of military specialist that are similar
to LRRP units (but unarmed and in civilian clothing), consisting
of military anthropologist, signal corp. specialist, demo experts,
cartographers, and others. The team, normally consist of 10 to
12 members. They conduct highly specialized recovery operations
deep into the jungles.
Once remains and artifacts are recovered, they are sent to the
Armys Central Identification Laboratory in Hawaii where forensic
experts confirm and identify the remains. The forensic process
of identifying the remains is considered to be the most advanced
in the world.
Remains that are recovered and sent to the Hawaii laboratory are
met with an Honor Guard and the Pacific commanders of each military
branch, consisting of senior Generals and Admirals. After identification
(sometimes taking as long as 6 months), the remains are returned
to the families for full military burial. Their departure is again
accompanied with the highest military honors. A small contingency
of local veterans is usually present at the edge of the tarmac,
along with several dozen military personnel at attention.
While live MIA sightings are occasionally reported, no live recoveries
have occurred.
The enclosed photos were taken at a recent MIA departure ceremony
at Hickam Air Force Base.
Footnote: I have contacted the Joint Task Force and have been
offered an invitation to accompany them on a future field expedition.
Anyone interested?
Michael S. Chu
Co. G (RANGER) 75th Infantry