Project Recover Newsletter | July 2025

Dear , 

On July 18th, 2025, the community of Savannah, Georgia, gathered to honor the long-awaited homecoming of 2nd Lt. Milton Leonard Hymes Jr., a World War II Army Air Forces pilot who went missing in action over the Baltic Sea in 1944. The repatriation ceremony, drew more than 200 people — including family members, veterans, and local patriots. Lt. Hymes was laid to rest with full military honors, marking the end of an 81-year journey for a brave young man who gave his life in service to his country. 

“I’ve been a proud team member of Project Recover since 2018, but this mission was truly special. It stirred deep emotions and touched my heart. Being part of the recovery of these young men—who fought for our freedom— gave meaning to all our sacrifices. It reminded me that the journey is far from over and that Keeping America’s Promise is more than just words—it’s a mission for all of us.” 

-Aldo Costigliolo, Project Recover European Regional Director 

The initial survey and the recovery projects leading up to the identification of Lt. Hymes was completed in partnership with Project Recover and other experts in the field.

Welcome home, Lt. Hymes. Your legacy lives on.

We are honored to share that, through the efforts of Project Recover and in partnership with the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), 2nd Lt. Jason K. Goldwater, who had been Missing In Action, has been officially identified. 2nd Lt. Goldwater, a member of 42nd Bombardment Group “The Crusaders”, 69th Bombardment Squadron, 13th Air Force, was a B-25 Navigator. The B-25 went missing in Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the morning of July 10th, 1943. 

“It is an incredible feeling to see our hard work come to fruition and to play a role in our nation’s duty to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Repatriating these service members recognizes their service and brings comfort and closure to families whose loss spans generations.” 

-Andrew Pietruszka Ph.D., Project Recover Team Lead on the 2017 mission

Watch Project Recover on 'Expedition Unknown' on July 30

Mark your calendar or set your recorder for the Wednesday, July 30 episode of 'Expedition Unknown'! A Project Recover case will once again be highlighted. This is a great opportunity to witness our work up close through the passionate, interesting, and entertaining narration of Josh Gates. "Searching for the World War II's Lost Hero" will air at 9:00pm EST on the Discovery Channel. 

Thank you for your continued support of Project Recover. Every mission we undertake, every hero we bring home, and every family we serve is made possible because of your unwavering dedication. Your belief in our mission fuels our work and reminds us that we are never alone in this journey. We truly could not do this without you. Thank you for standing with us.