JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii –
On September 16, 2025, Papua New Guinea celebrated the 50th anniversary of its independence, a milestone honoring half a century of self-determination, resilience, and cultural pride. For the United States, this golden anniversary is not only a moment to recognize the achievements of a close Pacific partner, but also a time to reflect on enduring ties forged during World War II.
Papua New Guinea was the site of some of the fiercest battles in the Pacific theater. Thousands of American service members served, fought, and in many cases never returned home from campaigns across rugged mountains and remote jungles. Today, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency continues its mission to locate, recover, and identify those missing in action from World War II.
As Papua New Guinea honors its independence, the nation also supports DPAA recovery missions that bring American families long-awaited answers. This search is not solely an American endeavor; it is deeply connected to the people of Papua New Guinea. Communities preserve memories of wartime aircraft wrecks, grave sites, and battle locations, while elders pass down knowledge that often unlocks decades-old mysteries.
DPAA missions rely on close partnerships with Papua New Guinean officials, scholars, and villagers. Government leaders grant access and coordinate resources, ensuring the work is conducted respectfully. Local expertise proves invaluable as recovery teams navigate dense jungles and rugged terrain. In rural villages, families open their homes and share meals with DPAA teams, reflecting the spirit of hospitality and solidarity that defines the nation.
“Every mission is sacred, and every local community is unique. We respect the land and its people,” said U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Jeremy Smith, Indo-Pacific Deputy Director, who visited Papua New Guinea in August to meet with partners and observe mission planning. “Our mission planners work directly with the National Museum and Art Gallery, also known as NMAG, to ensure we have the proper permissions. We also work with the Papua New Guinea Defense Force, PNGDF, to ensure safety and security. We work by, with, and through the U.S. Embassy, where two local nationals are employed by DPAA—jobs that are critical to mission accomplishment. Every team is joint and bilateral, with U.S. personnel alongside NMAG officers, PNGDF soldiers, and local workers who excavate sites with us.”
For those in the field, these partnerships are more than logistical, they’re personal.
“It’s incredibly meaningful to see the passion, work ethic, and pride that the people of Papua New Guinea bring to this mission,” said U.S. Navy Lt. Patrick Hennessey, a team leader on the most recent recovery mission to the country. “Their support is not just helpful—it’s essential. Local communities play a critical role in our efforts, and their dedication reflects a deep sense of shared history and humanity.”
This collaboration embodies the broader U.S.–Papua New Guinea relationship, one built on mutual respect, shared sacrifice, and a commitment to honoring history. As the country marks 50 years of independence, its partnership with DPAA underscores how remembrance and reconciliation remain central to national identity. Each successful recovery mission is a testament to the strength of international cooperation and the determination to bring U.S. personnel home.
“It’s an honor to celebrate Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary of independence alongside people who so strongly support our mission,” Hennessey added. “I hope this moment reminds both Americans and Papua New Guineans that our shared history continues to unite us, and that honoring the past is something we do together.”