Status of the Tarawa Unknowns

ABOVE IS A PHOTO OF THE GRAVE MARKER FOR “SCHOFIELD UNKNOWN X-117”  TAKEN BY CHIEF STONE AT THE NATIONAL MEMORIAL CEMETERY OF THE PACIFIC (PUNCHBOWL) IN HONOLULU, HAWAII in 2011.   FOUNDATION RESEARCH SELECTED PFC JACK J. FOX AS A MOST LIKELY MATCH TO UNKNOWN X-117.

X-117 WAS THE FIRST OF THE PUNCHBOWL TARAWA “UNKNOWNS” TO BE OFFICIALLY IDENTIFIED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE IN APRIL 2017 .  NOW OVER SIX YEARS AFTER HIS OFFICIAL IDENTIFICATION WAS ANNOUNCED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, DPAA REFUSES TO CONFIRM THAT X-117 WAS PFC FOX…UNBELIEVABLE!!!

While a member of the Department of Defense, Rick Stone served as the Deputy Chief of World War II Research and Investigation Branch, J-2 Intelligence Directorate, Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) in Honolulu, Hawaii.  He was also the primary investigator assigned to the cases of American servicemen listed as “Unresolved” the Battle of Tarawa. Chief Stone employed a system he had created during his law enforcement career called “RISC” (Random Incident Statistical Correlations) to correlate multiple statistical and historical datasets on unidentified casualties from the Battle of Tarawa.  

If you are a family member of one of the over 350 American heroes who are still listed as missing or “Unaccounted For” from the Battle of Tarawa, you may contact the Chief Rick Stone and Family Charitable Foundation for a comprehensive “Family Report” designed specifically for your lost serviceman with information regarding any possible match to those previously interred as an “Unknown” in the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl) in Honolulu, Hawaii.  Our Foundation has completed almost 550  individual “Family Reports” for family members of missing American servicemen. 

There is absolutely NO charge for our services.

At the Department of Defense, Chief Stone utilized the Random Incident Statistical Correlation (RISC) System in completing official Investigative Reports on 93 bodies, or portions of bodies, buried as an “Unknown” in the Punchbowl and one unidentified casualty that was buried at sea.  Research resulted in lists of names being developed for the three standard investigative categories in each of the 94 cases investigated:

1) Possible Matches

2) Probable Matches

3) Most Likely Matches

Each list was progressively refined by investigation from Possible Matches, down to Probable Matches, until the smallest number of Most Likely Matches was obtained. In some cases, further refinement to a Best Match was possible.   

THE ORIGINAL INVESTIGATIVE REPORTS PREPARED AT THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE HAVE BEEN CONTINUALLY UPDATED BY FOUNDATION RESEARCHERS AND INVESTIGATORS AS NEW INFORMATION HAS BEEN UNCOVERED THAT WAS NOT ORIGINALLY AVAILABLE AT JPAC.  NEW FORENSIC TECHNOLOGIES  HAVE BEEN APPLIED THAT ARE BEYOND THE CAPABILITIES OF THE DEFENSE POW/MIA ACCOUNTING AGENCY (DPAA) LABORATORY.  IN ADDITION, ADVANCED LAW ENFORCEMENT INVESTIGATIVE TECHNIQUES HAVE BEEN UTILIZED THAT ARE NOT AVAILABLE TO THE “NON-PROFIT” GOVERNMENT CONTRACTORS WHO RECEIVE MILLIONS OF TAXPAYER DOLLARS ANNUALLY TO RECOVER REMAINS OF MIA’S.  THESE REVISED REPORTS HAVE BEEN REPEATEDLY OFFERED TO DPAA WITHOUT RESPONSE.

When the Department of Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) announced in October 2016 that it was finally acting on the recommendations by Chief Stone to disinter and identify the Tarawa Unknowns from the Punchbowl, each updated Investigative Report on the Tarawa Unknowns was again offered to the Department of Defense to aid in the identification process.   While the disinterment of the Tarawa Unknowns was completed on March 27, 2017, DPAA identifications proceed at an agonizingly slow pace while family members die of old age still awaiting the return home of the their hero.

watches swiss fake breitling hublot replica fake watches Replica Rolex fake rCurrently, there are over 350 “Unresolved” casualties from the Battle of Tarawa.  This number includes a casualty who is listed in Department of Defense records as both “Resolved – Buried at Sea” and “Unresolved – Buried in Cemetery 33 but not recovered.”  Below is a synopsis of case specific research of each Tarawa Unknown previously buried in the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl):

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-1

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: January 30, 2012

Summary: Investigative research indicates that Unknown Schofield Mausoleum #1: X-1 is not an American “unresolved” casualty from the Battle of Tarawa and is most likely a Japanese combatant or a Korean laborer killed during the battle.  Repatriation recommended.

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-3

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On May 19, 2017, the Department of Defense announced that CPL Henry Andregg, Jr. was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.  At the time of the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation, CPL Andregg was a “Probable Match” to X-3 .  Investigative research by the Foundation found discrepancies in CPL Andregg’s dental profile which precluded his upgrade to a “Most Likely Match”. 

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: January 30, 2012

DPAA’s confirmation of the match to X-3:

ANDREGG HENRY JR CPL 387337

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-5

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On December 4, 2017, the Department of Defense announced that PFC Lyle Ellis Charpilloz was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.  At the time of the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation, PFC Charpilloz was a “Most Likely Match” to X-5 .  Investigative research by the Foundation strongly indicated that PFC Charpilloz was X-5.  On February 10, 2018 PFC Charpilloz’ family confirmed his identification as X-5.   

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: January 31, 2012

DPAA’s confirmation of the match to X-5:

CHARPILLOZ LYLE ELLIS PFC 315407

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-6

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: February 3, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 7 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-12

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On April 1, 2019, the Department of Defense announced that Staff Sergeant Vincent Jerome Rogers, Jr. was identified as a field recovery from Tarawa.  SSGT Rogers was a “Most Likely Match” to X-12 in the original case investigation on 3 August 2011.  A Foundation report requested by the U.S. Congress in 2016 concluded that SSGT Rogers was one of four Army fliers who were buried as an “Unknown” in the Punchbowl Cemetery.  Continuing investigative research by the Foundation strongly indicated that SSGT Rogers was X-12.  When challenged, DPAA revised its announcement on 29 April 2019 to confirm that X-12 was SSGT Vincent Jerome Rogers, Jr.  

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: August 3, 2011

DPAA’s confirmation of the match to X-12:

ROGERS VINCENT JEROME JR. S SGT 12169863

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-13

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: In February 2020, the Department of Defense announced that SSGT John Rowland Busch. was misidentified in 1946, was buried in New York, and had recently been identified  but did not indicate where SSGT Busch’s body had been recovered.   Based completely on historical data and minimal biometric comparison datasets, the RISC System selected SSGT Busch as a “Most Likely Match” to only one “Unknown” in the Punchbowl – X-13.   On October 16, 2020,  under a FOIA demand, DPAA finally confirmed that SSGT Busch was X-13.   

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: February 7, 2012

DPAA’s confirmation of match to X-13:

BUSCH JOHN  ROWLAND SSGT 32474977

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-14

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On March 23, 2018, the Department of Defense announced that Captain George Van Vleet, Jr. was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.  Captain Van Vleet was a “Most Likely Match” to X-14 in the original case investigation on 9 February 2012.  The date of Captain Van Vleet’s death was even inscribed on the grave marker of Unknown X-14.  This was one of Chief Stone’s most frustrating cases at JPAC because this obvious important clue to solving the identity of Unknown X-14 was COMPLETELY ignored by JPAC/DPAA.  Investigative research by Chief Stone and the Foundation strongly indicated that Captain Van Vleet is X-14.   

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: February 9, 2012

DPAA’s confirmation of the match to X-14:

VAN VLEET GEORGE JR CAPT 917892

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-15

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On January 31, 2019, the Department of Defense announced that 1st Lieutenant Howard Thomas Lurcott was identified as a field recovery from Tarawa.  LT Lurcott was a “Most Likely Match” to X-15 in the original case investigation on 8 August 2011.  A Foundation report requested by the U.S. Congress in 2016 concluded that LT Lurcott was one of four Army fliers who were buried as an “Unknown” in the Punchbowl Cemetery.  Continuing investigative research by the Foundation strongly indicated that LT Lurcott was X-15.  When challenged, DPAA revised its announcement on 12 March 2019 to confirm that X-15 was Lieutenant Howard Thomas Lurcott.  

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: August 8, 2011

DPAA’s confirmation of the match to X-15:

LURCOTT HOWARD THOMAS 1 LT O-665064

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-16

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On August 27, 2018, the Department of Defense announced that PhM3c William Horace Blancheri was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.  At the time of the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation, PhM3c Blancheri was a “Most Likely Match” to X-16 .  Investigative research by the Foundation indicates that PhM3c Blancheri is a Most Likely Match to only one Tarawa Unknown:  X-16.  

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: February 17, 2012

DPAA’s confirmation of the match to X-16:

BLANCHERI WILLIAM HORACE PHM3C

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-17

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: February 18, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 12 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-20

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On October 21, 2019, the Department of Defense announced that PFC Joseph Francis Boschetti was identified as “Unknown X-20” recovered from the Punchbowl.  At the time of Chief Stone’s original JPAC investigation on 9 August 2011, PFC Boschetti was a “Possible Match” to X-20 but the age and weight estimations made by the Army Central Identification Laboratory of Unknown X-20 were in conflict with PFC Boschetti’s physical characteristics. Foundation researchers continued to investigate PFC Boschetti’s case and a “Family Report” was requested by PFC Boschetti’s family which was completed and sent on 31 January 2018. 

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: 9 August 2011

DPAA’s confirmation of the match to X-20:

BOSCHETTI JOSEPH FRANCIS PFC

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-21

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: February 18, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 6 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-25

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On April 19, 2018, the Department of Defense announced that PFC Clarence Eli Drumheiser was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   At the time of the Foundation’s last update on PFC Drumheiser’s case, he was a “Most Likely Match” to Unknown X-25.  The Foundation filed a Federal FOIA lawsuit demanding PFC Drumheiser’s dental records to confirm his identity as X-25.  On 29 October 2018, DPAA finally informed the Foundation that PFC Drumheiser had been identified as X-25.  

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: February 19, 2012

DPAA’s confirmation of the match to X-25:

DRUMHEISER CLARENCE ELI PFC 361198

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-28

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: February 22, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 4 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-32

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On May 3, 2018, the Department of Defense announced that PFC William Franklin Cavin was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   On 14 June 2018, DPAA confirmed that PFC Cavin had been identified as X-32.  Investigative research by the Foundation found major unexplainable discrepancies in PFC Cavin’s height, age, hair color, and shoe size profile that could not be reconciled with the original anthropologist’s examination of X-32.   

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: February 24, 2012

DPAA’s assessment of the match to X-32:

CAVIN WILLIAM FRANKLIN PFC 316412

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-35

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On September 28, 2017, the Department of Defense announced that PVT John Merrill Tillman was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   At the time of the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation, PVT Tillman was a “Most Likely Match” to X-35.   Investigative research by the Foundation strongly indicated that PVT Tillman was X-35.  On 31 October 2017, DPAA confirmed that PVT Tillman was X-35. 

Click here to listen to NO HOME FOR HEROES Podcast Episode 13 for more information on X-35.

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: February 25, 2012

DPAA’s confirmation of the match to X-35:

TILLMAN JOHN MERRILL PVT 326800

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-37

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: February 28, 2012

Most Recent Update:  June 19, 2021

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 6 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-44

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On June 16, 2017, the Department of Defense announced that PVT Archie William Newell was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   At the time of the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation, PVT Newell was a “Probable Match” to X-44.   Investigative research by the Foundation found discrepancies in PVT Newell’s dental profile that precluded his upgrade to a “Most Likely Match”. 

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: February 26, 2012

DPAA’s assessment of the match to X-44:

NEWELL ARCHIE WILLIAM PVT 394552

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-49

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On July 14, 2017, the Department of Defense announced that CPL Anthony George Guerriero was identified but did not list him as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   CPL Guerriero was a “Most Likely Match” to X-49 at the time of Chief Stone’s original JPAC investigation on March 12, 2012 . At the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation, CPL Guerriero remained a “Most Likely Match” to X-49.   News media reports in November 2017 confirmed that X-49 was identified as CPL Guerriero.  

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: March 15, 2012

DPAA’s Confirmation of match to X-49:

GUERRIERO ANTHONY GEORGE CPL 281246

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-54

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: March 16, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 15 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-55

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On May 6, 2019, the Department of Defense announced that PLSGT George Ernest Trotter was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl Cemetery in Honolulu, Hawaii.   Using the RISC System, PLSGT Trotter was a “Possible Match” to only two “Unknowns” at the time of Chief Stone’s original JPAC investigation on February 29, 2012 .  At the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation, PLSGT Trotter was a “Most Likely Match” to X-55.   On 8 July 2019, the DoD confirmed that X-55 was identified as PLSGT Trotter.  

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: February 29, 2012

DPAA’s Confirmation of match to X-55:

TROTTER GEORGE ERNEST PLSGT 211879

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-57

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: February 29, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 15 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-60

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: March 1, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 1 definitive match. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-66

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: March 1, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 11 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-67

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: March 18, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 14 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-70

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: March 22, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 8 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-74

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: March 23, 2012

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On October 29, 2018, the Department of Defense announced that PFC William Edward Brandenburg was identified as a Punchbowl “Unknown” but did not list which “Unknown”.  Using the RISC System, Foundation researchers listed PFC Brandenburg as a “Most Likely Match” to X-74 at the time of his official identification.  On 31 May, 2019, the Department of Defense confirmed that PFC Brandenburg was X-74.

DPAA confirmation of match to X-74:

BRANDENBURG WILLIAM EDWARD PFC 500355

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-77

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: March 23, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 4 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-79

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: March 24, 2012

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On July 29, 2018, the Department of Defense announced that PFC Robert Leroy Zehetner was identified as a Punchbowl “Unknown” but did not list which “Unknown”.   PFC Zehetner was a “Possible Match” to X-79 at the time of Chief Stone’s original JPAC investigation on March 24, 2012 . On 4 October 2018 it was confirmed that X-79 was identified as PFC Zehetner .

DPAA’s Confirmation of match to X-79:

ZEHETNER ROBERT LEROY PFC 337697

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-82

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On August 16, 2017, the family of TSGT Harry Carlsen notified the Foundation that he had been identified as Unknown X-82  recovered from the Punchbowl.   TSGT Carlsen was a “Most Likely Match” to X-82 at the time of Chief Stone’s original JPAC investigation in 2012 . SGT Carlsen remained a “Most Likely Match” to X-82 when updated comprehensive Family Reports were provided in 2013, 2014, and 2016.   TSGT Carlsen was a “Most Likely Match” to only one Tarawa Unknown: X-82.   

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: March 26, 2012

DPAA’s confirmation of the match to to X-82:

CARLSEN HARRY ARNOLD T SGT 337447

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-83

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: March 26, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 4 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-84

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: March 29, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 6 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-85B

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: March 31, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 16 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-87

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On September 14, 2017, the Department of Defense announced that PFC Harold Vernon Thomas was identified but did not list him as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   PFC Thomas was a “Possible Match” to X-87 at the time of Chief Stone’s original JPAC investigation on March 31, 2012 . At the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation, PFC Thomas was upgraded to a “Most Likely Match” to X-87 based on investigative research using new techniques and information not available at JPAC/DPAA.  On 16 November 2017, DPAA confirmed that PFC Thomas was X-87. 

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: March 31, 2012

DPAA’s confirmation of match to X-87:

THOMAS HAROLD VERNON PFC 318409

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-89

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On September 13, 2017, the Department of Defense announced that SGT William David Ball Jr. was identified but did not list him as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   SGT Ball was a “Most Likely Match” to X-89 at the time of Chief Stone’s original JPAC investigation on April 2, 2012 . At the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation, SGT Ball remained a “Most Likely Match” to X-89.   DPAA confirmed on November 9, 2017 that X-89 was SGT William David Ball, Jr. 

Click here to listen to NO HOME FOR HEROES Podcast Episode 15 for more information on X-89.

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: April 2, 2012

DPAA confirmation of match to X-89:

BALL WILLIAM DAVID Jr. SGT 350129

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-91

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: April 3, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 9 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-98

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On May 28, 2019, the Department of Defense announced that PFC John Taylor Burke had been identified but did not list him as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   The Foundation provided PFC Burke’s family with a comprehensive “Family Report” in 2016 which listed PFC Burke as buried in the Punchbowl Cemetery as an “Unknown”. At the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation, the Foundation believes that PFC Burke is Unknown X-98.   DPAA has refused to release where PFC Burke was recovered or even if he was an “Unknown”.  Nonetheless, the Foundation investigation indicates PFC Burke is X-98 to the exclusion of all other Tarawa MIA’s.  On 8 August 2019, the Foundation obtained the Armed Forces Medical Examiner Summary Report which confirmed that PFC Burke was Unknown X-98. 

Click here to listen to NO HOME FOR HEROES Podcast Episode 30 for more information on X-98.

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: April 3, 2012

Armed Forces Medical Examiner confirmation of match to X-98:

BURKE JOHN TAYLOR PFC 434557

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-99

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: November 1, 2011

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 4 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-100

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On September 8, 2017, the Department of Defense announced that PVT George Frank Patrick was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   At the time of Chief Stone’s original investigation at JPAC, PVT Patrick was a “Most Likely Match” to X-100.   At the time of the Foundation’s last update in this case, PVT Patrick was one of only two most likely matches to X-100.   On 13 October 2017, DPAA confirmed that PVT Patrick was X-100. 

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: November 4, 2011

DPAA’s confirmation of match to X-100:

PATRICK GEORGE FRANK PVT 474918

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-103

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On May 7, 2019, the Department of Defense announced that SSGT Wesley Lee Kroenung, Jr. was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.  SSGT Kroenung was a possible match to X-103 at the time of Chief Stone’s original JPAC investigation on November 5, 2011.  At the time of the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation, SSGT Kroenung was a “Most Likely Match” to only one Punchbowl Unknown, X-103 .  USMC confirmed on 25 June 2019 that SSGT Kroenung was X-103.   

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: November 5, 2011

USMC confirmation of the match to X-103:

KROENUNG WESLEY LEE JR. S SGT 820197

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #2: X-104A

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: April 6, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 7 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #2: X-104B

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed:  April 6, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 25 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-111

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: November 7, 2011

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 2 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-115

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On November 29, 2017, the Department of Defense announced that 1st SGT David Harvey Quinn was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.  1st SGT Quinn was a “Most Likely Match” to X-115 at the time of Chief Stone’s original JPAC investigation on November 8, 2011.  At the time of the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation, 1st SGT Quinn was one of only two “Most Likely Matches” to X-115 .  DPAA confirmed on 10 January 2018 that 1st SGT Quinn was X-115.   

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: November 8, 2011

DPAA’s confirmation of the match to X-115:

QUINN DAVID HARVEY 1 SGT 304563

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-116

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On May 19, 2017, the Department of Defense announced that PFC Sam John Kourkos was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.  At the time of the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation, PFC Kourkos was one of only five “Most Likely Matches” to X-116 .  On 28 September 2017, DPAA confirmed that PFC Kourkos was X-116.  

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: November 9, 2011

DPAA’s confirmation of the match to X-116:

KOURKOS SAM JOHN PFC 426670

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-117

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On April 4, 2017, the Department of Defense announced that PFC Jack Junior Fox was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   PFC Fox was a “Probable Match” to X-117 at the time of Chief Stone’s original JPAC investigation on November 11, 2011.  At the time of the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation. PFC Fox was one of only two “Most Likely Matches” to X-117.   DPAA continues to refuse to confirm that PFC Fox was X-117.

Click here to listen to NO HOME FOR HEROES Podcast Episode 17 for more information on X-117.

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: November 11, 2011

Foundation’s assessment of the match to X-117:

FOX JACK JUNIOR PFC 498327

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-118

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On September 2, 2021, the Department of Defense announced that CPL Andrew Pellerito was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   CPL Pellerito was a “Probable Match” to X-118 at the time of Chief Stone’s original JPAC investigation on November 15, 2011.  CPL Pellerito’s family requested a comprehensive Family Report on his case in 2017, at which time CPL Pellerito was upgraded to a “Most Likely Match” to X-118.   DPAA has yet to confirm that CPL Pellerito was X-118 but Foundation investigators are 100% certain of the identification.

Click here to listen to NO HOME FOR HEROES Podcast Episode 75 for more information on X-118.

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: November 11, 2011

Foundation’s assessment of the match to X-118:

PELLERITO ANDREW CPL 355031

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-123

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: November 16, 2011

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicatesMOST LIKELY MATCHES

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-130

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: November 21, 2011

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 15 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-131

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: November 21, 2011

Summary:  Investigative research indicates 192 possible matches of “Unresolved” Tarawa casualties to Unknown X-131.  From these, there are 121 probable matches and 81 most likely matches.

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-136

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: November 23, 2011

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 11 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-140

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: November 23, 2011

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 10 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-144

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On July 27, 2018, the Department of Defense announced that PFC Merton Raymond Riser was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   PFC Riser was submitted as a “Most Likely Match” to only one Unknown during Chief Stone’s tenure at JPAC:  X-144.  At the time of the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation, PFC Riser was again cited as a “Most Likely Match” to X-144.   On 11 September 2018, the USMC confirmed that X-144 was PFC Merton Riser.   

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: November 24, 2011

 DPAA’s confirmation of the match to to X-144:

RISER MERTON RAYMOND PFC 510776

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-150

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On October 17, 2017, the Department of Defense announced that SGT Elden William Grimm was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   At the time of the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation. SGT Grimm was one of only two “Most Likely Matches” to X-150.   On 24 April 2018, DPAA confirmed that X-150 was SGT Elden William Grimm.  

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: November 22, 2011

DPAA’s confirmation of match to X-150:

GRIMM ELDEN WILLIAM SGT 329501

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-152

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: September 28, 2011

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 3 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-153

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On July 21, 2017, the Department of Defense announced that PVT Alberic Maurice Blanchette had been identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   On August 8, 2017, DPAA confirmed that PVT Blanchette was X-153.  At the time of the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation, PVT Blanchette was a “Possible Match” to X-153.   Investigative research by the Foundation found unexplainable discrepancies in PVT Blanchette’s age profile that precluded his upgrade to a “Most Likely Match”. 

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: October 6, 2011

DPAA’s assessment of match to X-153:

BLANCHETTE ALBERIC MAURICE PVT 350357

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-154

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: October 7, 2011

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 10 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-155

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On August 13, 2019, the Department of Defense announced that PVT Edwin Francis Benson was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   PVT Benson was a “Most Likely Match” to X-155 at the time of Chief Stone’s original JPAC investigation on 12 October 2011.   

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: October 12, 2011

USMC’s confirmation of the match to X-155:

BENSON EDWIN FRANCIS PVT 286881

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-162

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On October 23, 2018, the Department of Defense announced that SGT Dwight Wade Randall was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   SGT Randall was a “Possible Match” to X-162 at the time of Chief Stone’s original JPAC investigation and was later upgraded in 2014 to a “Most Likely Match” to X-162 based on newly discovered information by Foundation investigators.   

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: October 14, 2011

DPAA’s confirmation of the match toX-162:

RANDALL DWIGHT WADE SGT 350225

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-163

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On June 20, 2017, the Department of Defense announced that PFC Ray James was identified but did not list him as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   PFC James was a “Most Likely Match” to X-163 at the time of Chief Stone’s original JPAC investigation on August 9, 2011.   On 12 July 2017, DPPA confirmed that X-163 was PFC Ray James. 

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: August 9, 2011

DPAA’s confirmation of the match to X-163:

JAMES RAY   PFC 500780

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-166

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On October 20, 2017, the Department of Defense announced that PFC Arnold Junior Harrison was identified but did not list him as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   PFC Harrison was a “Most Likely Match” to X-166 at the time of the Foundation updated investigation of the case.   DPAA confirmed on December 11, 2017 that X-166 was PFC Arnold Junior Harrison.  

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: August 9, 2011

DPAA’s Confirmation of match to X-166:

HARRISON ARNOLD JUNIOR PFC 483060

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-168

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On September 8, 2017, the Department of Defense announced that PFC Manuel Menendez was identified but did not list him as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   PFC Menendez was a “Most Likely Match” to only one “Unknown” in the Punchbowl:  X-168.  DPAA confirmed on September 28, 2017 that X-168 was PFC Manuel Menendez. 

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: August 5, 2011

DPAA’s confirmation of match to X-168:

MENENDEZ MANUEL   PFC 474087

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-184

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: November 2, 2011

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 4 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-191

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: September 29, 2011

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 4 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-193

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: October 14, 2011

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 5 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-198

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On March 19, 2019, the Department of Defense announced that CAPT Edward Glenn Walker, Jr. was misidentified in 1946, was buried in Tennessee, and had recently been identified as a Punchbowl “Unknown”, but did not indicate which “Unknown.”   Based completely on historical data and minimal biometric comparison datasets, CAPT Walker was a “Most Likely Match” to seven “Unknowns” in the Punchbowl including X-198.   On August 17, 2020, DPAA confirmed that CAPT Walker was X-198.   

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: August 9, 2011

DPAA’s confirmation of match to X-198:

WALKER, Jr. EDWARD  GLENN CAPT 7335

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-201

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On February 21, 2018, the Department of Defense announced that PFC Joe Lukie was identified but did not indicate which “Unknown” he was recovered from in the Punchbowl.   PFC Lukie was a “Most Likely Match” to only one “Unknown” in the Punchbowl:  X-201.   On August 1, 2018, DPAA confirmed that PFC Lukie was X-201.   

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: October 19, 2011

DPAA’s confirmation of match to X-201:

LUKIE JOE   PFC 465289

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-203

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On August 27, 2019, the Department of Defense announced that PFC Alfred Edwards was identified an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   PVT Edwards was a “Most Likely Match” to only two “Unknowns” in the Punchbowl, X-203 and X-209.   IN AN INCREDIBLY STUNNING VALIDATION OF THE RISC SYSTEM CREATED BY CHIEF STONE AND UTILIZED BY FOUNDATION RESEARCHERS, PFC Edwards was officially identified as BOTH Unknown X-203 and X-209 by the Department of Defense on 27 August 2019.   

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: August 9, 2011

DoD’s confirmation of match to X-203:

EDWARDS ALFRED   PFC 341127

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-206

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On July 17, 2017, the Department of Defense announced that PVT Joseph Carmine Carbone was identified but did not indicate he was an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   PVT Carbone was a “Most Likely Match” to only one “Unknown” in the Punchbowl:  X-206.   On 21 August 2017, DPAA confirmed that X-206 was PVT Joseph Carmine Carbone. 

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: August 11, 2011

DPAA’s confirmation of match to X-206:

CARBONE JOSEPH CARMINE PVT 517499

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-209

IDENTIFICATION: On August 27, 2019, the Department of Defense announced that PFC Alfred Edwards was identified an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   PFC Edwards was a “Most Likely Match” to only two “Unknowns” in the Punchbowl, X-203 and X-209.   IN AN INCREDIBLY STUNNING VALIDATION OF THE RISC SYSTEM CREATED BY CHIEF STONE AND UTILIZED BY FOUNDATION RESEARCHERS, PFC Edwards was officially identified as BOTH Unknown X-203 and X-209 by the Department of Defense on 27 August 2019.   After a review of PFC Edwards’ DPPA Laboratory Identification Report received by a FOIA demand on 7 August 2020, Foundation investigators confirmed that PFC Edwards was X-203.  Only one bone from PFC Edwards was confirmed by DNA to be X-209.   In addition, investigators found several discrepancies between PFC Edwards and X-209.  Based on the DPAA Laboratory’s extremely poor and inept past performance, Foundation investigators have decided to re-open the case of X-209.

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: December 9, 2011

DoD’s confirmation of match to X-209:

EDWARDS ALFRED   PFC 341127

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-210

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On September 8, 2017, the Department of Defense announced that ACK Frank Louis Masoni was identified but did not indicate he was an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   At the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation, ACK Masoni was a “Probable Match” to X-210.   On 28 September 2017, DPAA confirmed that X-210 was ACK Frank Louis Masoni. 

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: September 21, 2011

DPAA’s Confirmation of match to X-210:

MASONI FRANK LOUIS ACK 478412

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-211

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: September 20, 2011

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicatesMOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-217

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: September 19, 2011

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicatesMOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-224

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On February 1, 2018, the Department of Defense announced that PFC Jack Harvey Krieger was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   At the time of the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation, PFC Krieger was one of only two “Most Likely Matches” to X-224.   On 20 April 2018, DPAA confirmed that X-224 was PFC Jack Harvey Krieger.   

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: September 16, 2011

 DPAA’s  confirmation of match to X-224:

KRIEGER JACK HARVEY PFC 371423

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-227

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: September 13, 2011 

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 3 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-228

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On May 15, 2019, the Department of Defense announced that PFC Royal Lawrence Waltz was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   PFC Waltz was a “Most Likely Match” to X-228 at the time of Chief Stone’s original JPAC investigation using the “RISC SYSTEM” on September 12, 2011 . PFC Waltz remained a “Most Likely Match” to X-228 when a comprehensive Family Report was provided to PFC Waltz’ family in 2017.   After a formal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was filed by the Foundation, DPAA  provided documents  on September 13, 2019 confirming that X-228 was PFC Royal Lawrence Waltz.   

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: September 12, 2011

 DPAA’s  confirmation of match to X-228:

WALTZ ROYAL LAWRENCE PFC 316170

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-230

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: September 16, 2011

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 7 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-231

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: None 

Summary:  An official FOIA request was filed on 10 January 2018 for the file pertaining to X-231 and DPAA states that they have no information.

Current Foundation research indicates 56 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

Click here to listen to NO HOME FOR HEROES Podcast Episode 33 for more information on X-231.

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-234

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On April 17, 2020, the Department of Defense announced that SGT Fred Farris was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   SGT Farris was a “Most Likely Match” to X-234 at the time of Chief Stone’s original JPAC investigation using the “RISC SYSTEM” on August 15, 2011 . SGT Farris remained a “Most Likely Match” to X-234 during subsequent updates of SGT Farris’ case by Foundation investigators.   After a formal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was filed by the Foundation, DPAA  finally confirmed on 19 August 2020 that X-234 was SGT Fred Farris.

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: August 15, 2011

 DPAA’s  confirmation of match to X-234:

FARRIS FRED  SGT 324158

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-239

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: August 15, 2011

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 10 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-244

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: April 5, 2012  

Summary: Investigative research indicates that Unknown Schofield Mausoleum #1: X-244 is not an American “unresolved” casualty from the Battle of Tarawa and is most likely a Japanese combatant or a Korean laborer killed during the battle.

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-247

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: In March 2024, the family of PVT Richard Gordon Wright notified the Foundation that he was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   At the time of the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation, PVT Wright was a “Most Likely Match” to X-247 and a “Probable Match” to X-251.   It is likely that the remains of X-247 and X-251 were co-mingled during the recovery process in 1946.

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: September 11, 2011

 DPAA’s  confirmation of match to X-247 and X-251 is pending FOIA requests.

WRIGHT RICHARD GORDON PVT

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-251

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: In February 2024, the Department of Defense announced that SGT Harold Hammett was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   At the time of the Foundation’s last update in this case investigation, SGT Hammett was a “Most Likely Match” to X-251 and a “Probable Match” to X-247.   It is likely that the remains of X-247 and X-251 were co-mingled during the recovery process in 1946.

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: September 14, 2011

 DPAA’s  confirmation of match to X-247 and X-251 is pending FOIA requests.

HAMMETT HAROLD (none) SGT

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-265

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: December 13, 2011

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 4 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-267

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On October 12, 2018, the Department of Defense announced that PFC Michael Leo Salerno was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   At the time of the Foundation’s update in this case investigation, PFC Salerno was a “Most Likely Match” to X-267.   On 13 November 2018, DPAA confirmed that X-267 was PFC Michael Leo Salerno. 

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: December 14, 2011

DPAA’s confirmation of match to X-267:

SALERNO MICHAEL LEO PFC 803681

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-273

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: In August 2018, the family of SGT Millard Odom notified the Foundation that he had been identified as Unknown X-273  recovered from the Punchbowl.   SGT Odom was a “Most Likely Match” to X-273 at the time of Chief Stone’s original JPAC investigation on December 14, 2011 . SGT Odom remained a “Most Likely Match” to X-273 when a comprehensive Family Report was provided to SGT Odom’s family in 2015.   SGT Odom was a “Most Likely Match” to only one Tarawa Unknown: X-273.   

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: December 14, 2011

DPAA’s confirmation of the match to X-273:

ODOM MILLARD SGT 254722

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-275

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On July 14, 2017, the Department of Defense announced that PFC Raymond Clark Snapp was identified as an “Unknown” recovered from the Punchbowl.   At the time of the Foundation’s update in this case investigation, PFC Snapp was a “Most Likely Match” to X-275.   On 8 August 2017, DPAA confirmed that X-275 was PFC Raymond Clark Snapp. 

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: December 15, 2011

DPAA’s confirmation of match to X-275:

SNAPP RAYMOND CLARK CPL 322665

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-277

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: December 16, 2011

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On June 1, 2018, the Department of Defense announced that CPL Claire Eulin Goldtrap was identified as a Punchbowl “Unknown” but did not list which “Unknown”.   Using the RISC System, CPL Goldtrap was a “Most Likely Match” to X-277 at the time of Chief Stone’s original JPAC investigation on December 16, 2011 . On March 4, 2019, the Department of Defense confirmed that X-277 was identified as CPL Goldtrap.

Click here to listen to NO HOME FOR HEROES Podcast Episode 9 for more information on X-277.

DPAA’s confirmation of match to X-277:

GOLDTRAP CLAIRE EULIN CPL 285789

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-278

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: January 27, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 17 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #1: X-280

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: January 28, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 8 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #2: X-281

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: April 9, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 10 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN SCHOFIELD MAUSOLEUM #2: X-282

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: April 9, 2012

Summary: Investigative research indicates 148 probable matches of “Unresolved” Tarawa casualties to Unknown Schofield Mausoleum #2: X-282.  From these, there are 60 most likely matches.

Click here to listen to NO HOME FOR HEROES Podcast Episode 71 for more information on X-282.

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN CILHI  1979-003

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: September 30, 2011

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 4 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN CILHI 1980-002

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: October 5, 2011

FINAL IDENTIFICATION: On October 5, 2011, Chief Stone using the Random Incident Statistical Correlation System (RISC) submitted an official Investigative Report to JPAC which listed CPL Thomas Harley Cooper as a “Most Likely Match” to Unknown CILHI-1980-002.  A comprehensive “Family Report” was provided by the Foundation to CPL Cooper’s family in April 2013.  The Foundation continued to investigate CPL Cooper’s case and an official FOIA request was filed with DPAA on 26 May 2017 for documents pertaining to CILHI-1980-002.  DPAA failed to produce the documents and a federal lawsuit was filed which forced DPAA to release the documents.   A Foundation analysis of the file documents confirmed Chief Stone’s original conclusion that CPL Cooper was a “Most Likely Match” to CILHI 1980-002.  On November 4, 2019, the Department of Defense announced that CPL Thomas Harley Cooper was identified as a Punchbowl “Unknown CILHI 1980-002.”

DPAA’s confirmation of match to CILHI 1980-002:

COOPER THOMAS HARLEY CPL 295826

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN CIL 2010-150-01

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: March 20, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 28 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN CIL 2010-150-02

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: March 20, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicatesMOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH: UNKNOWN JAPAN XJ-1323 & XJ-1323A thru XJ-1323G

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed:  July 9, 2012

Summary: Investigative research indicates that the remains of eight individuals were recovered on Tarawa in 1963/1964 and buried together in Grave 815-A in the Punchbowl.  JPAC/DPAA has repeatedly stated they have no information on the anthropological examination of these remains other than the Punchbowl burial record.  Using historical correlations ONLY without any biometric information on the remains, Foundation researchers determined that there were 52 Most Likely Matches of “Unresolved” Tarawa casualties to these eight unknowns.

On 21 November 2019, PFC Edward Nalazek was the first of the eight to be identified as XJ 1323-B.  

DPAA’s confirmation of match to XJ 1323-B:

NALAZEK EDWARD AUGUSTINE PFC 380904

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH:  UNKNOWN “WM” – Buried at Sea

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: July 9, 2012

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 15 MOST LIKELY MATCHES AND ONE BEST MATCH. 

 

CASE SPECIFIC RESEARCH:  MIS-IDENTIFIED UNKNOWN FROM GRAVE OF CAPT EDWARD GLENN WALKER

Date JPAC Investigative Report completed: None

Summary:  Current Foundation research indicates 5 MOST LIKELY MATCHES. 

Copyright (C) 2012-2024 Chief Rick Stone & Family Charitable Foundation. All Rights Reserved.

 

5 thoughts on “Status of the Tarawa Unknowns”

  1. I wish to thank Chief Stone and the Chief Rick Stone Family Charitable Foundation from the bottom of my heart for the great amount of work and faithful completion of returning PFC Merton Raymond Risers remains to his family. Your blessed work has sent ripples of gratitude and thanks to many.

    Sincerely,
    Noelle Bryan

  2. Dear Mr. Stone-

    I have been waiting to write this letter to you for 6 years. This morning, I was able visit the grave-site of my great uncle Harry Bud Carlsen for the first time in my life. We laid him to rest yesterday, after a beautiful ceremony at the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood Illinois. Harry Bud Carlsen is home for the first time in nearly 77 years. Yesterday, my aunt Barb was able to attend for the second time, a memorial service for her uncle. I can say that the peace and gratitude I feel today has far eclipsed any feelings of bitterness that lingered within me toward my government over the last 10 years. Deep down I felt this day would come for us, and when you put the family report in my hands in October of 2012, I knew this day would come for us.

    Thank you Mr Stone. We could not have done this without your help.

    I will do my best to raise awareness in support the work left in the identification of the remaining Tarawa Unknowns, so that other families may be reunited with their MIA soldier and honor their service and sacrifice to our country. There are many things in the country today which divide us, but one thing that will always unite us, is that America is the home of the brave. Thank you for all that you do in support of our soldiers and their families..

    Best Regards Always,

    Ed Spellman

  3. Thank you Chief for your diligent work in assisting our families in locating loved ones. We appreciate all you do!

  4. On behalf of the Byrne and Yanez families, we would like to express our sincere “Thank You” for all the time and effort your organization put fourth for PL Sgt. Basil Norman Jr.

  5. What the Foundation did for our family was unbelievable. I attribute Millard’s return to Chief Rick Stone’s Foundation! I hope you were able to see some of the news footage from San Diego. It was amazing!! I have attached a couple of pictures taken from the tarmac at the SD Airport.

    Thank you isn’t enough.

Comments are closed.