Historical Analysis of United States POW/MIA Repatriation and Remains Recovery

This study investigates the historical record concerning the repatriation of American service members and the recovery of remains during World War II, Korea, and the Vietnam War. The issue of accounting for American service members has been proclaimed as a matter of the highest national priority and that the fullest possible accounting will be achieved. In reality, the results of U.S. policy fall short of the stated intent. This paper focuses on evidence from the historical record that illustrates that less than a full accounting occurred. The thesis concludes that there has not been a cover-up or conspiracy involving this issue through the years. Rather, there has been a great deal of sloppiness, secrecy, and evasion on the political level, but nothing more. The research identifies several recurring themes consistent with each conflict that shaped the ability and commitment of the United States to fully carry out their POW/MIA and remains policy. With a better understanding of what led to less than a full accounting, perhaps future American conflicts will result in an accounting commensurate with America's highest national interest.