US praises Solomon Islands for role in WWII recovery work
BY NED GAGAHE
The United States acknowledges and praises Solomon Islands ongoing support towards efforts to recover and honour the remains of fallen US servicemembers from World War II.
Speaking during the 83rd Anniversary of the Guadalcanal Campaign at the American Memorial at Skyline on Thursday, August 7, 2025, US Ambassador Ann Marie Yastishock thanked the Solomon Islands government, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and the Solomon Islands National Museum for their active partnership in supporting the US Defence POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA).
“We are deeply grateful for this cooperation.
“It has had a significant impact on the bilateral relationship and reflects our shared respect for history and sacrifice,” Ambassador Yastishock said.
The DPAA continues to work on Guadalcanal to locate and recover the remains of US servicemembers who went missing during the six-month battle that began on August 7, 1942.
The mission aims to provide full accounting to families still waiting for closure.
The Ambassador highlighted when the remains of a US serviceman were discovered during the construction of the American Memorial at Skyline.
The recovery led to a successful identification and helped one family find long-awaited peace.
“That story reminds us of why this work matters to families, to our nations, and to history,” she said.
Yastishock also acknowledges the enduring support of Solomon Islander communities, who continue to assist recovery teams in the field and help preserve historical sites and wartime legacies.
“These partnerships do more than uncover history. They heal families, preserve heritage, and strengthen the ties between our nations,” she said.
The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, Premier of Guadalcanal Province Willy Atu, Chief Justice Sir Albert Palmer, and members of the Diplomatic Corps, alongside US military personnel and international guests.
The United States and Solomon Islands marked 83 years since the Battle of Guadalcanal, the tribute also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving history, not just in memorials, but in meaningful cooperation between nations.
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