I received a call today, from Department of Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), Quantico, VA.

My uncle James B Johnson has been positively identified using DNA samples from my cousin and myself.

Next month, a representative will be coming to my home to explain the process of interment.

One more Marine is coming home.. :lifter

link: background

Semper Fidelis

Welcome home, Marine!

Pat

That is the most stellar news I've read in quite awhile.
OUT-standing!
:lifter

Indeed welcome home !

Welcome home sir. Rest in Peace.

WOW! JUST WOW!

I will say that in an age where the military is attacked on all sides and we wonder if there is any ethics and morality left in this world; this story proves we haven't lost our way. That we still will bring every man home come Hell or high water!

I am happy that your search can finally be put to rest as well as your uncle who gave his life so that others may live!

STRENGTH AND HONOR!

That is truly awesome. A hero comes home. Congratulations JJ!
:lifter

A great thing this.

That is great news!

Awesome news JJ !!!!!

Fantastic! Welcome home Marine.

Latest update:

I was visited yesterday by Ms Hattie Johnson (no relation) of DPAA and SSG Morgan, Marine escort.

They delivered the formal DPAA report of Uncle Jim's recovery with the details of forensic investigation. It was very fascinating to understand the level of work they put into the recovery. They used a combination of techniques to make sure they have a match: dental records, xrays, DNA, anthropological markers, and if available personal effects.. The full report is well over 100 pager and takes up 45mb on a cd.

The surprise was that they managed to recover the complete skeletal structure and several personal items. The report notes that the right knee cap is missing. This happened when the History Flight that did the actual recovery, use it for DNA testing last year, before the remains were turned over to the DPAA team. I had submitted DNA samples to both teams.

The graves in plot #27 had been covered long ago by a black-top parking lot, and not disturbed. BUT,, The area was only a foot or so above high tide and it was thought the salt water would have destroyed 99%. Ended up not doing as much damage as expected.

I have tentatively set interment at ANC for the end of June or 1st part of July. Besides getting the family involved, there is the normal ANC nuances of scheduling the Chapel, Caisson, Band..... Not sure we will do everything but the offer is on the table.

Just for reference,, ANC has change their policy. ALL combat death interments are now allowed the full complement of ANC services. At one time the chapel, caisson, band had a pecking order set by the deceases rank. This is no longer the case. It is now the policy to allow the family to select what services they desire.

For those that are interested, I have attached the section of the report dealing with the skeletal analysis.

The DPAA also presented a set of Uncle Jim's awards. They said they plan to make a shadow box with the flag and other items. It will be at the interment ceremony.

Some of the personal items recovered: a ring, rosary ring, cross, and several coins. Additionally there was some of his TO&E uniform gear, buckles, snaps, boot soles..

Been a long journey
 

Been a long journey for everyone involved.

Congrats JJ

WoW!!! OutFrickenStanding!!! Welcome Home Marine. Rest in Peace.

Welcome home Marine.

I had the opportunity to spend time in the Solomon Islands 10 years ago.

We found the time to conduct a tour of battlefields including Bloody Ridge adjacent to Henderson Field(now Honiara International Airport).

The amount of battlefield detrius still sitting on the surface or just under is simply unbelievable.