AAR GW DPAA Mission: Unearthing, August 2023
As Veterans, we understand the significance of every mission, especially when it involves accounting for our fallen heroes. Today, we’re honored to share the news of our latest remarkable mission on Koh Tang Island, Cambodia.
As Veterans, we understand the significance of every mission, especially when it involves accounting for our fallen heroes. Today, we’re honored to share the news of our latest remarkable mission on Koh Tang Island, Cambodia.
The GW team arrived on Koh Tang Island in March, equipped and ready for the mission ahead. Lead EOD Technician and Lead Archaeologist Trevor Lea joined forces with representatives of DET-1. Together, they initiated site setup and gear accountability. During site review, the team realized that a new plan was needed for mission success, considering the challenging terrain and tide conditions.
The terrain surrounding the initial excavation site posed a unique challenge due to tide fluctuations. Engineering a cofferdam proved futile, but the team’s resilience (and sheer bloody mindedness!) won through. They adapted to the situation, recovering physical sediment from various tide pools. Despite the challenges, the team remained resolute in their efforts, and successfully completed the search of three identified locations.
The mission spanned from March 24th to April 27th, 2023, concluding with the successful excavation of the identified site. The safety and dedication of all personnel involved ensured a seamless operation, and the material evidence recovered was promptly handed over to DPAA representatives with proper chain of custody forms for analysis at their labs.
The mission’s triumph would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the Cambodian government, and the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF), the DPAA and the OVAI. Their relentless pursuit of recovering material evidence and thoroughly exploring the area within the allocated time frame demonstrated their commitment to honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
As military veterans, let us take a moment to salute the collective efforts of all those involved in the mission. Together, we continue to fulfill our duty, never leaving a comrade behind.