Terracon’s Archaeologists Support WWII Recovery Mission

Client

Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA)

Location

Germany

Challenge

Terracon’s work often begins below the surface, but sometimes it reaches deep into history. In 2025, Terracon partnered with the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) on a search and recovery mission in western Germany. Terracon archaeologists supported the investigation of a World War II-era B-17 bomber crash site. The project focused on locating the remains of a missing ball turret gunner from a 1944 mission in Germany, one of thousands of U.S. service members unaccounted for from past conflicts.

Leading the effort was Blue Nelson, M.A., RPA, senior archaeologist and military veteran whose career bridges science and service. “In the military, we made a promise to not leave anyone behind,” he said. “Through this work, we get to keep that promise.”

Crash recovery investigations differ significantly from traditional archaeological projects. The site required the team to process large volumes of soil efficiently while maintaining meticulous documentation, safety protocols, and chain‑of‑custody standards.

Solution

The deployment included a team of 13 with Terracon employees, veteran archaeology partners from American Veterans Archaeological Recovery, an in‑country linguist/archaeologist, and an explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) technician. Over four weeks, the team methodically excavated nearly 300 square meters of soil 10 to 56 centimeters below the surface. They navigated unexploded ordnance risks, historically disturbed ground, and strict documentation requirements — while adhering to DPAA protocols designed to protect both the integrity of the investigation and the dignity of the people involved.

Safety was foundational throughout the deployment. From daily planning to active excavation, the team emphasized situational awareness, hazard identification and mitigation, and supporting each other in working safely.

Results

Over their month-long mission, the team gathered critical information and material that will support ongoing forensic analysis by DPAA laboratories. For Terracon, the mission represents more than a single project; it reflects years of relationship‑building, preparation, and technical excellence in federal work.

From archaeological methodology and safety planning to collaboration with veteran‑focused partners, the WWII mission highlights how Terracon’s expertise can support complex projects with national significance. Most importantly, it underscores the human impact of the work, using science, teamwork, and care to help bring answers and, eventually, closure to families who have waited for generations.

“This mission brings together everything Terracon stands for,” Nelson said. “Technical excellence, teamwork, and care for people when the stakes are high.”

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