Next generation of military scans archives for clues to missing service members

The quiet hum of a scanner in the Chester Fritz Library at the University of North Dakota holds a powerful significance—it represents a new generation stepping forward to unravel the mysteries surrounding missing service members from past conflicts. Bella Hammer, a social work student and member of the North Dakota Air National Guard, recently played a vital role in digitizing thousands of pages from the James Wold Papers, records that could hold clues to the fates of those lost in the Korean and Vietnam wars. This effort, undertaken by UND students in partnership with the nonprofit Tours of Duty, highlights a commitment to honoring fallen heroes and bringing closure to grieving families—a mission deeply rooted in the values of service and remembrance.

A New Generation Steps Forward

Bella Hammer and Trevor Taylor, both students at the University of North Dakota and connected to the Veteran & Military Services, volunteered their time to digitize 6,400 pages from the James Wold Papers. These papers, housed in UND’s Chester Fritz Library since 2007, span from 1943 to 2003, the year James Wold passed away. The digitization project was initiated at the request of Tours of Duty, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting veterans and families seeking information about missing loved ones. Hammer, who regularly supports military-affiliated students in her work with UND’s Veteran & Military Services, found this a uniquely rewarding opportunity. “It was such a rewarding and unique opportunity,” she said. “I’m so honored to have been asked.”

James Wold, a decorated Air Force veteran, enlisted in 1951 and commanded units in Vietnam. He retired from the Air Force in 1977 and went on to earn his degree at the University of North Dakota School of Law, establishing a law practice in Luverne, North Dakota. In 1994, he was appointed as the deputy assistant secretary of defense for POW/MIA Affairs, working to account for Americans missing from the Korean and Vietnam wars. His collection at UND includes detailed records pertaining to service members whose remains were never recovered. Curt Hanson, who works with special collections at the Chester Fritz Library, described the collection as “unlike any other” the library holds, emphasizing its unique historical significance. Recognizing the time commitment required for scanning these documents, Hanson enlisted the help of Hammer and Taylor, demonstrating a collaborative effort to preserve and disseminate this important historical record. University of North Dakota

The Importance of Data and Dedication

Trevor Taylor, a combat medic in the U.S. Army from 2021 to 2025, now studies commercial aviation at UND. He readily agreed to participate in the project, viewing it as an opportunity to honor those who served before him and contribute to the ongoing effort to account for missing personnel. Taylor focused his scanning efforts on Wold’s personal journals and correspondence with Vietnam military officials, allowing him a glimpse into the complexities of reconciliation and the shared goal of bringing fallen service members home. “I imagine Gen. Wold talking to his former enemies in a combined effort to bring home our fallen service members,” Taylor said. “They deserve respect no matter what side they were on.”

Mike Luehring, who works with Tours of Duty, expressed gratitude for the involvement of UND students in the project, highlighting the organization’s commitment to engaging younger veterans in their mission. He emphasized that “no person can be left behind,” a core principle guiding their work. “In our world, data is gold,” Luehring said. “When I heard about the Wold Papers, I realized this is something that would be valuable to our pursuit. When you’re trying to help families, you cast as big of a net as possible.” The organization utilizes artificial intelligence tools alongside traditional investigative methods, including in-person interviews and archival research, to generate leads in these complex cases. U.S. Department of Defense

Supporting Veterans and Families

Hammer and Taylor’s involvement underscores a broader commitment to supporting veterans and their families. Hammer’s work with UND’s Veteran & Military Services provides vital support to military-affiliated students, while Taylor’s role as a peer support further strengthens the sense of community on campus. The digitization project serves as a tangible expression of this dedication, connecting contemporary veterans with the sacrifices and uncertainties faced by those who served decades ago. The project is a testament to the enduring spirit of service and the unwavering commitment to remembering those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

The Ongoing Search and Future Efforts

While it remains uncertain whether the digitized Wold Papers will directly lead to new discoveries, the effort represents a significant step forward in the ongoing search for missing service members. “It’s uncertain whether the Wold Papers will lead directly to any new discoveries,” Luehring said. “When trying to reconstruct events that occurred decades ago, any detail can become a needed piece of a much larger puzzle.” According to the U.S. Department of Defense, over 80,000 service personnel are currently missing from previous conflicts, with approximately 38,000 estimated to be recoverable.

For Hammer and Taylor, the project was about more than just the work. “I kept thinking about all the families we might be able to help,” Hammer said. “If we can give even one family closure, that is important. I’m glad to do my part.” Tours of Duty wants younger veterans to become involved in efforts to account for those who served before them. “We emphasize this idea that no person can be left behind,” Luehring said. The digitization of the Wold Papers underscores the potential for archival research to contribute to these recovery efforts. U.S. Army

Resources and Opportunities

Residents interested in supporting similar efforts can visit the Tours of Duty website for more information. Additionally, the University of North Dakota’s Chester Fritz Library is always seeking volunteers to help with digitization projects. For those looking to contribute, the library can provide training and support. The University of North Dakota’s Veteran & Military Services also provides support and resources for military-affiliated students, fostering a sense of community and connection on campus. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Tommy's Take

Seeing these young men and women, Bella Hammer and Trevor Taylor, dedicating their time to this archival project really speaks to the heart of what makes our communities strong. It’s easy to get caught up in the noise of the world, but these students are actively honoring a generation of veterans who deserve to be remembered. The fact that they understand the importance of bringing closure to families—that’s a fundamental truth about human decency and the value we place on commitment. It's a reminder that the bonds of duty and sacrifice transcend time and political divides.

What’s particularly poignant is Taylor’s observation about the Vietnam generation and the lack of community support they received upon returning home. We’ve learned a lot since then, and it’s crucial that we continue to prioritize the well-being of our veterans, not just with words but with tangible actions. This project isn’t just about finding missing service members; it’s about reaffirming our commitment to those who have served and ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten. It's a responsibility we have to the families left behind, and to the future generations who will inherit the legacy of service. U.S. Army

The success of this initiative hinges on continued collaboration between organizations like Tours of Duty, universities like the University of North Dakota, and dedicated volunteers willing to contribute their time and expertise. The project demonstrates the power of community engagement and the enduring importance of honoring those who have served our nation. As more records are digitized and analyzed, there is hope that new leads will emerge, bringing us closer to fulfilling the promise of leaving no one behind. North Dakota State Government

For those seeking to learn more about Tours of Duty and their efforts to account for missing service members, or for those interested in volunteering their time to support similar initiatives, resources are readily available online. The dedication of these individuals and organizations serves as an inspiration to us all, reminding us that even small acts of service can have a profound impact on the lives of others. Fargo Chamber of Commerce

This project is a testament to the enduring strength of our communities and the unwavering commitment to honoring those who have served. It’s a reminder that even in a rapidly changing world, the values of service, sacrifice, and remembrance remain timeless and essential. As we look ahead, it is crucial that we continue to support organizations like Tours of Duty and encourage the next generation to embrace the responsibility of honoring our nation’s heroes.