Military Ordnance Recovered at Assateague Island
In Worcester County, authorities are investigating the recovery of suspected unexploded military ordnance devices. On Sunday, December 28th, the two suspected unexploded military ordnance devices were recovered—one at Assateague Island National Seashore and another later that day at a residence in Ocean Pines after a member of the public transported the device from the island. Investigators determined the devices were likely M29A1 practice rockets used for military training during World War II. Bomb squad units and U.S. Air Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal personnel safely rendered both devices harmless. No injuries were reported. Authorities are reminding the public never to touch or move suspected ordnance and to call 911 immediately if such items are discovered.
Additional Information from the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office:
On Sunday, December 28, 2025, at approximately 8:35 a.m., the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office was requested to assist the National Park Service at Assateague Island National Seashore following the recovery of a suspected unexploded military ordnance.
Later that afternoon, a second suspected unexploded military ordnance was recovered at a residence on Greenwood Lane in the Ocean Pines community. The device recovered in Ocean Pines was determined to have originated from Assateague Island and had been transported from the National Seashore to the residence by a member of the public.
Bomb squad units from the Ocean City Fire Marshal’s Office responded and coordinated with the United States Air Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team from Dover Air Force Base, 436th Civil Engineer Squadron. Following evaluation, both devices were believed to be M29A1 Practice Rockets or a variation of the same, a type of military training ordnance commonly known as the “Super Bazooka”.
Assateague Island was historically used as a military bombing and training range during World War II, and unexploded military ordnance may still be present in certain areas. Although designated as “practice” munitions, these devices can still pose serious safety hazards.
Both devices were rendered safe and disposed of properly by EOD personnel. There were no injuries reported in either incident.
The Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office strongly reminds the public that unexploded military ordnance and suspicious devices are extremely dangerous. Members of the public should never touch, move, or transport any suspected ordnance. If an unfamiliar or suspicious object is discovered, individuals should immediately leave the area and call 911 so trained personnel can respond safely.