Uncovered History: The Discovery of World War I Mortars at Pearson Field Airport

Introduction: A Day Like No Other at Pearson Field Airport

In an unexpected turn of events, Pearson Field Airport in Washington State became the focal point of a historical discovery that no one could have anticipated. On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, an archaeologist stumbled upon something unusual during their work at the airport. What they found was not an ancient artifact or a relic from a bygone era, but something far more dangerous: unexploded mortars. The Vancouver Police Department was quickly notified, and what followed was a carefully orchestrated operation to ensure the safety of everyone involved. This incident not only highlighted the importance of vigilance but also uncovered a piece of history that had been buried for nearly a century.

The Discovery: An Archaeologist’s Surprising Find

The archaeologist, whose name has not been disclosed, was conducting a routine excavation at Pearson Field Airport when they came across the unexploded ordnance. The discovery was made shortly before noon, and the police were immediately alerted. The Vancouver Police Department sprang into action, dispatching their Mobile Explosive Device Unit to assess the situation. The officers undoubtedly did not expect to handle such a unique and dangerous discovery, as evident from the police department’s social media post, which expressed their surprise with a statement: "A call our officers did NOT expect to be dispatched to yesterday! 😦"

The Response: A Collaborative Effort to Ensure Safety

Upon arrival, the Mobile Explosive Device Unit quickly realized the severity of the situation. The unexploded mortars posed a significant threat, and a meticulous plan was needed to neutralize them. The police department enlisted the help of the U.S. Air Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) personnel, who brought their expertise to the table. Together, the teams devised a strategy to safely detonate the devices. A hole was dug at the site, and the mortar was carefully placed inside before being detonated in a controlled manner. This method ensured that the explosion was contained, minimizing any potential damage or risk to the surrounding area.

Historical Significance: Unearthing a Piece of World War I

The mortars found at Pearson Field Airport were identified as World War I-era Stokes Mortars, a type of weapon used extensively during the conflict. These mortars were typically made of steel or iron cylinders and were employed by British and American troops in trench warfare. The Stokes Mortar was a significant advancement in weaponry at the time, known for its simplicity and effectiveness in combat. The mortars found at the airport were consistent in size with historical examples, measuring approximately 15 inches long and 3 inches in diameter. This discovery not only shed light on a forgotten piece of military history but also raised questions about how these weapons ended up in Washington State, far from the battlefields of Europe.

The Mystery: How Did World War I Mortars End Up in Washington?

The presence of World War I mortars at Pearson Field Airport is a puzzling aspect of this discovery. The airport, one of the oldest continuously operating airports in the United States, has a rich history dating back to its use by the U.S. Army Air Service from 1923 to 1941. While the airport’s historical significance is well-documented, the origin of the mortars remains unclear. One theory is that the mortars might have been brought to the airport as part of military training exercises or as surplus weaponry. However, without further information, the exact circumstances under which these mortars arrived at the airport remain a mystery. This discovery serves as a reminder that even in the most unexpected places, history can resurface in surprising ways.

Conclusion: A Lesson in Vigilance and Historical Preservation

The discovery of the unexploded World War I mortars at Pearson Field Airport is a testament to the importance of vigilance and the unpredictable nature of history. The archaeologist’s unexpected find highlights the need for careful exploration and examination of even the most mundane sites. The collaboration between local law enforcement and military experts demonstrates the effectiveness of a well-coordinated response to potential dangers. As for the mortars themselves, their discovery serves as a poignant reminder of the conflicts of the past and the enduring legacy of warfare. While the mystery of their presence in Washington State remains unsolved, this incident underscores the importance of preserving history, even in the most unlikely of places.