Life Sciences Equipment Section is Looking for Korean War Artifacts
Life Sciences Equipment Section (LSEL) is a support agency of the Joint Task Force Full Accounting which
studies equipment artifacts that are found. Identification of equipment found with remains can be helpful in
identifying the remains. In 1994, the Life Sciences Artifact Section (LSAS) was activated as an adjunct
department of the LSEL. It’s specialized mission is to provide scientific support to various organizations
within DoD, as part of the POW/MIA accounting effort.
Equipment artifacts can be many things, such as military uniforms; ejection seats; parachutes; escape
devices or survival aids. When an artifact is found with a set of remains, LSAS identifies the type of
equipment, the specific system from which it originated; its service applicability; and the time period
in which it was used. This information can help in the remains identification process by identifying a
smaller number of servicemen who most likely would have used the equipment found. LSAS is thought to be
the only laboratory of its type in the world.
The LSEL is currently expanding its laboratory in anticipation of expanded recovery missions into Korea.
They are looking for the following Korean War era articfacts: Air Force and Navy flight equipment (boots,
helmets, flight suits, survival vests, etc.); and Army ground equipment (boots, uniforms, web belts, etc.)
They are looking for materials that date from 1950-1953 for comparison purposes.
For more information about needed artifacts or a list of requirements, please contact