Recovering the Fallen - Honoring Their Legacy

AVAR partners with the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) to locate and recover missing service members abroad using archaeological methods.

International Recovery Missions

Join AVAR veterans on meaningful overseas archaeological excavations to recover and identify missing U.S. service members.

AVAR closely collaborates with the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) to conduct rigorous, volunteer-based archaeological excavations dedicated to locating, recovering, and repatriating missing American military personnel. Previous AVAR-DPAA missions include recovery operations of WWII aircrews in England and Italy, directly resulting in positive identifications and the return of remains to families. These international projects provide veterans with a profound opportunity to leverage their military discipline, teamwork, and technical skills in systematic excavations and recovery methods. AVAR fully covers the costs of international travel, accommodations, and meals, allowing participants to fully commit their energy and focus to these significant, life-changing missions.

Highlights:

  • International volunteer excavations at historic battle and crash sites (England, Sicily)

  • All expenses covered (international airfare, lodging, and meals provided by AVAR)

  • Hands-on experience in Phase III excavation methods

  • Directly supporting the DPAA mission of bringing closure to families through the recovery of missing personnel

completed projects - Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA)

Physically Demanding, Deeply Rewarding

Be prepared for rigorous fieldwork under challenging conditions.

DPAA missions represent AVAR’s most challenging and impactful archaeological fieldwork. Veterans engaging in these recovery projects must be physically fit and capable of lifting soil buckets weighing up to 25 lbs., standing for extended periods, and meticulously screening excavated soil for human remains and historical artifacts during intensive eight-hour shifts. Operating under austere, remote conditions, participants must embody resilience, adaptability, and professional discipline. Despite the physical demands, veterans consistently describe DPAA recovery missions as deeply rewarding, offering unmatched personal fulfillment, meaningful team camaraderie, and the profound honor of bringing fallen heroes home to their families.

Highlights:

  • Intensive archaeological fieldwork with rigorous physical requirements

  • Profound purpose: direct contribution to DPAA’s mission of recovering American MIA personnel

  • Substance-free environment ensuring mission integrity and professionalism

  • Emphasis on teamwork, discipline, and respect for the solemnity of the mission

Answer the Call Once More

Join AVAR’s DPAA projects to help bring closure to families and honor America’s fallen heroes. Your service can make a profound and lasting difference.

Supporting Veterans, Honoring Families

Providing comprehensive support as veterans help fulfill a sacred promise.

AVAR ensures participants receive robust support, including on-site resources designed specifically for veteran wellness. Our DPAA projects have led directly to successful identifications of missing personnel, profoundly impacting families awaiting answers. Participating veterans not only contribute to a critical national mission but also experience personal fulfillment through service, teamwork, and dedication to a noble cause.

Highlights:

  • On-site veteran-focused support

  • Direct contribution to positive identifications

  • Emotional and professional growth opportunities