Remains of Dean’s brother

last updated 8 January 2015

Vientiane, Laos

The government of Laos has sent back to the U.S. what are believed to be the remains of the brother of presidential candidate Howard Dean. Charles Dean was 24 when he and an Australian friend disappeared in 1974, while traveling in Laos. They were believed to have been killed by the communist rebels who took over the following year. Howard Dean said his family was convinced the remains belonged to his brother, as they included belongings such as shoes and a bracelet. Laos also repatriated the remains of two American soldiers. More than 350 Americans from the Vietnam War era are still counted as missing in Laos.