UPDATE: Just hours before the New Year, two unexploded World War II-era “super bazooka” rockets were recovered from Assateague Island National Seashore, prompting a swift response from authorities. The dangerous discovery was made on December 30, 2025, when National Park Service staff spotted the first device shortly after 8:30 a.m.
The recovered rockets, identified as M29A1 practice rockets, triggered immediate action from both local bomb squad units and the U.S. Air Force’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team. This significant find highlights the ongoing risks posed by military ordnance from the past, especially in areas once used for training exercises.
Later in the day, a second rocket was retrieved from a residence on Greenwood Lane in Ocean Pines, Maryland. Investigators confirmed that this device had been taken from the beach by a member of the public. Thankfully, both rockets were safely disposed of without any injuries.
Local explosives specialists, speaking to WBOC News, confirmed that these devices were used for military training and not in live combat. However, officials cautioned that despite being rendered safe, these “super bazookas” and similar WWII-era ordnance can still be extremely hazardous if disturbed.
The alarming find is a stark reminder of Assateague Island’s history, which served as a military bombing and training range during World War II. Although most explosives were cleared shortly after the war, shifting sands and coastal erosion continue to expose remnants that can be dangerous to unsuspecting beachgoers.
Authorities urge anyone who encounters unfamiliar or suspicious objects—whether on the beach or elsewhere—to avoid touching them and to call 911 immediately. Even training ordnance can contain hazardous materials that may become unstable over time.
As the New Year approaches, beach safety remains paramount. Officials are closely monitoring the area to ensure that no further unexploded devices are present, and they continue to remind the public about the potential dangers of old military equipment.
Stay tuned for updates as this developing story unfolds.
