In early April 2025, a joint working delegation from Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the US Embassy in Hanoi observed a search operation for MIA remains in Cop village of Huong Phung commune, Huong Hoa district, Quang Tri province.

This is not only a humanitarian task, but also a profound symbol of reconciliation embodying the spirit of compassion, the willingness to break with the past, and the determination to move forward.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Do hung Viet emphasised that Vietnam has always honoured its commitments, not only through diplomacy but also through humanitarian actions.

“Our immediate implementation of MIA search activities after the signing of the 1973 Paris Agreement reflects Vietnam’s strong commitment to honouring agreements with the United States. I also deeply appreciate the Vietnamese people's spirit of forgiveness. It reflects a great mindset and long-term vision of our leadership, that the ability to move beyond hatred and embrace compassion is perhaps the greatest message Vietnam offers,” said Viet.

Over the past half century, Vietnam has recovered and returned more than 1,200 sets of remains, enabling the US to identify more than 735 personnel. These outcomes testify to tireless efforts, from data review and field excavations to the respectful handover of personal effects.

US Army Lieutenant Colonel Travis Walter Ray, Commander, Detachment 2 Vietnam, Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), expressed his heartfelt gratitude, saying from the beginning of this mission, the US has received smooth and effective cooperation from Vietnam.

“Like today, when people come to observe our operations, they can see how well everything works. I felt the warm support from local authorities and residents. I was surprised and deeply touched by their enthusiasm and willingness to help. It means a lot to us,” said Eay.

The search for missing American service members is part of broader joint efforts between Vietnam and the US to address war legacy. The US government has committed to supporting Vietnam in key areas, including dioxin decontamination, unexploded ordnance clearance, and assistance for families affected by the war.

At the excavation site in Cop village, Deputy Foreign Minister Do Hung Viet and US Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper joined the search team. The operation brought together US experts, Vietnamese diplomats, and local residents working side by side.

According to Knapper, the joint search is more than a humanitarian task, it has become a model of cooperation in war legacy reconciliation and a powerful symbol of healing war wound between the two countries.

“We will continue working with Vietnam to heal the wounds of war and build a peaceful, prosperous future,” said the ambassador.  

The joint search for missing US service members is not only a responsibility shared by both countries but also a powerful symbol of reconciliation. It represents a world where past loss no longer divides, but inspires collective efforts toward a peaceful and shared future.

US pledges continued support for UXO clearance in war-torn Quang Tri

VOV.VN - US Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper confirmed that the US would continue to fund projects to address the consequences of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Quang Tri province during a meeting with provincial leaders on April 2.