U.S. Air Force Pilot Accounted For From Vietnam War
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) has announced a significant development in the ongoing efforts to account for missing American service members from the Vietnam War. U.S. Air Force Maj. John C.G.
Here are the details surrounding Maj. Kerr’s case:
Incident Date:
On August 22, 1967, Maj. Kerr was piloting an A-26A Invader attack aircraft on a solo nighttime armed reconnaissance mission over the Plain of Jars in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Unfortunately, he failed to check in via radio and did not return from the mission. Despite extensive electronic and visual searches by U.S. forces, neither Kerr nor the aircraft could be located. A New China News Agency broadcast reported the shootdown of an American aircraft near Ban Ban, also resulting in the loss of its crewmembers.
Disappearance:
After Maj. Kerr failed to check in via radio and did not return from the mission, extensive search efforts were undertaken by U.S. forces. Despite the presence of enemy defenses in the area, they could not locate Kerr or the aircraft.
Broadcast Report:
A New China News Agency broadcast also reported the shootdown of an American aircraft near Ban Ban on the same day, along with the deaths of its crewmembers. This incident is likely related to Maj. Kerr’s disappearance.
KIA Declaration:
Maj. Kerr was declared “Killed in Action” on June 4, 1971.
Accounting For Maj. Kerr:
Fast forward to April 24, 2024, when the DPAA confirmed that Maj. Kerr’s remains had been identified. This momentous achievement brings closure to his family and also honors his sacrifice.
The DPAA’s mission to account for Americans who went missing while serving our country remains ongoing.
This development brings closure to Maj. Kerr’s family and honors his sacrifice in service to the nation. We continue to remember and honor all those who served during the Vietnam War.
