U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Saowalak Wester, Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency linguist, surveys an area during a recovery mission in Laos, Feb. 4, 2026. Linguists are used to coordinate with government officials, locals and show the team cultural considerations. There are more than 280 personnel missing in Laos from the Vietnam War. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Dallin Wrye)