American flag and POW/MIA flag (Photo: R.D. Ward, DoD)
Department of California Judge Advocate, Amado C. Salinas II, has been traveling, and visiting various Veteran events. Last October, he was invited to the USS Midway where he was awarded Volunteer of the Year by the Vietnam War Ear DOD Team. It was there that he crossed paths with the Founder of TERRA Search Promise, sparking a conversation about the work carried out by The American Legion and Terra Search Promise’s efforts in recovering missing soldiers.
Currently, TERRA Search Promise, the nation’s first Service-Disabled-Veteran-owned and operated nonprofit organization dedicated to the task of POW/MIA research, recovery, “the repatriation of the remains of those who died bravely in defense of liberty, and a full accounting of those missing. Let us rededicate ourselves to this vital endeavor.”
The group is gearing up for its next deployment mission, scheduled June 17 to July 17, near Stuttgart, Germany. The mission aims to recover a missing World War II Service Member, providing long-awaited closure to their family. Veterans, their families, and professional first responders are invited to participate, with no prior experience necessary.
Salinas II believes that there are Legionnaires who may have both the passion and financial capability to participate in this worthy cause.
“I am invited to this current Mission, and I am hoping others may wish to volunteer to help,” said Salinas II.
TERRA Search Promise, established by retired Colonel PJ Dermer in October 2020, is the first Veteran organization to open its doors to the wider Veteran community, inviting families and supporters to participate in their mission. Aspiring volunteers must demonstrate a team-oriented mindset and physical resilience to work in outdoor environments. TERRA Search Promise ensures the well-being of deployed teams, providing accommodations, meals, and transportation.
Volunteer opportunities are available in various categories, including fully supported, partially sponsored, and third-party sponsored deployments. Those interested in joining can find more information on their website.
In a time where the priority lies with caring for living Veterans, the issue of missing soldiers can sometimes fade from focus. Terra Search Promise was established to ensure that the nation’s promise to never forget remains steadfast for generations to come. In the words of TERRA Search Promise, MIA recovery missions offer a sense of fulfillment, allowing participants to “give back,” while exploring the past and shaping the future.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
