WASHINGTON –
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) has determined that an identification made in Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 of the remains of a soldier missing from the Korean War was made in error.
DPAA immediately informed the U.S. Army Service Casualty Office (SCO), who then notified the family of the error.
"We have extended our deepest apologies to the family and will explain the regrettable error when we and the Army meet with them," said Kelly McKeague, DPAA director.
In accordance with its laboratory accreditation requirements and quality assurance system, DPAA is performing an internal cause analysis of the misidentification. DPAA has also arranged for an independent scientific assessment of this case and overall laboratory processes. Both reviews will guide any necessary adjustments to DPAA's identification and laboratory procedures.
"While this misidentification is an unfortunate mistake, we will learn from it, and the lessons we learn and apply will further strengthen our scientific enterprise," said McKeague.
DPAA has decremented the FY 2019 accounted-for total from 218 to 217.
DPAA Public Affairs can be reached at (703) 699-1420/1169 or (808) 448-4500, ext. 3150.