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Bringing Fallen Heroes Home: Sean Everette on DPAA's Mission to Recover and Identify Missing American Service Members
September 30, 2024 · 33 min

What happens when you combine an unwavering commitment to the warrior ethos with cutting-edge forensic science? Join us as we speak with Sean Everette, the Media Relations Chief for the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), who shares his unique insights into the agency's tireless mission of locating and identifying over 81,000 missing American service members from World War II and beyond. With a personal touch, I recount the story behind my POW/MIA bracelet, a symbol of hope and remembrance I've worn since 1972, connecting deeply to the agency's profound work.Discover how DPAA's global partnerships, involving more than 100 organizations, fuel their extensive recovery operations across the world. Sean sheds light on the complex identification process, including forensic analysis, DNA testing, and chest radiograph analysis, revealing the extraordinary dedication required to bring fallen heroes back home. From the dense jungles of Vietnam to the labs in Hawaii and Nebraska, learn about the meticulous efforts that result in emotional reunifications with families, fulfilling the solemn promise of never leaving a comrade behind. This episode offers an eye-opening glimpse into an agency of remarkable resolve and its impact on countless lives.