In Tough Seas: Overcoming Field Challenges Through Innovation and Partnerships with DPAA

Summary

This is an abstract from the session entitled "Applying the Power of Partnerships to the Search for America's Missing in Action", at the 2023 annual meeting of the Society for Historical Archaeology.

In 2022, DPAA partnered with Marine Imaging Technologies, to conduct a phase I archaeological survey off Guam’s coastline for three WWII aircraft. The reported locations for these sites were in areas of high seas, fast currents, and strong winds that had posed hazards and losses for previous survey equipment in the past. Additionally, the bathymetry of the areas comprised of dynamic changes in depths with sudden valleys, rises, and sea mounts, mirroring the rocky coastline, posed threats to successful, strategic surveying and quality results. Marine Imaging Technologies partnered with Eastern Search & Survey to enhance an innovative system allowing for flexibility and deeper water capabilities (1,000FSW) for small boats and limited crew operations. This paper discusses the goals, challenges, and results of this project and looks to ways forward on similar missions with DPAA in keeping America’s Promise.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Applying the Power of Partnerships to the Search for America's Missing in Action   •
• Society for Historical Archaeology 2023

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Individual & Institutional Roles

Contact(s): Nicole Haddow