At the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA), we are committed to honoring every service member — including those who never came home.
That’s why we want you to know about the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA).
What is the DPAA?
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency is a special agency within the U.S. Department of Defense. Its mission is simple, but deeply meaningful:
To find and bring home U.S. service members who were taken prisoner or went missing in past wars.
This includes heroes from:
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World War II
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The Korean War
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The Vietnam War
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The Cold War
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Conflicts in the Middle East
Why It Matters
When a loved one doesn’t come home, the pain doesn’t end. Families are left with questions, grief, and uncertainty. The DPAA works hard to bring answers and closure.
They search battlefields, work with other countries, study old records, and even use modern science like DNA testing to identify remains.
Their work gives families peace — and ensures our nation never forgets those who are still missing.
How You Can Help
If you are a family member of someone still missing, the DPAA may be able to help. You can:
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Submit DNA to help with identification
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Attend family update meetings
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Learn more about ongoing recovery efforts
To get started, visit the DPAA website: https://www.dpaa.mil
Or call their toll-free number: 1-833-320-1857
You are not alone. Your loved one’s story matters. And we will never stop remembering.