URGENT UPDATE: Two decades-old, unexploded military rockets were recovered from Assateague Island National Seashore just days before New Year’s Eve, raising alarms among local authorities. The devices, identified as M29A1 practice rockets, known colloquially as “Super Bazookas,” prompted a swift response from bomb squad units and the U.S. Air Force’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal team.
The unsettling discovery was first reported shortly after 8:30 a.m. on December 31, 2025, when National Park Service staff identified a suspicious object on the island. Hours later, a second rocket was located at a residence on Greenwood Lane in Ocean Pines after investigators confirmed it had been illegally taken from the beach by a member of the public.
Both rockets were ultimately rendered safe and disposed of without incident, according to local news outlet WBOC. Explosives specialists clarified that these devices were intended for military training rather than active combat, yet they remain hazardous. Authorities emphasized that even practice ordnance can contain unstable components due to years of exposure to the elements.
The presence of these rockets underscores Assateague Island’s historical significance during World War II, when it served as a military bombing and training range. The coastal environment, coupled with shifting sands and erosion, may have unearthed these dangerous remnants long after most have been neutralized.
Officials are urging the public to exercise caution around any unfamiliar objects, particularly on beaches. “Unexploded military devices, including training rockets, should never be touched or moved,” a spokesperson warned. “If you encounter something suspicious, leave the area immediately and call 911 for trained personnel to handle the situation.”
As the New Year approaches, the recovery of these WWII relics serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking in seemingly peaceful environments. Stay tuned for further updates as authorities continue to monitor the area and ensure public safety.
