Iwo Jima, Japan ? Avoiding unexploded grenades and hacking their way through cactus under a blazing sun, an American search team has located two caves where they believe a Marine who filmed the iconic flag-raising on Iwo Jima may have been killed 62 years ago in one of World War II’s most symbolic battles.

The team, which wrapped up its 10-day expedition Wednesday, was the first U.S.-led search on this remote volcanic island since 1948.

Army Maj. Sean Stinchon, who led the effort, told The Associated Press the team conducted an extensive search on the southwestern side of Hill 362A, where Sgt. William H. Genaust was believed killed by enemy gunfire on March 4, 1945.

Stinchon said the seven-member team located two previously unmapped sites, but was unable to search them because of the possibility of a collapse and because of obstacles blocking the way. He said the team will recommend a larger search party be sent in with heavy equipment to excavate.

He said an explosives expert was on the team – Iwo Jima continues to be riddled with unexploded ordnance – and checked before the team did any “poking around.” At the site, shrapnel from the battle, a turning point of the war, still littered the ground.

The condition of the two caves also underscored the difficulty of the mission. One was blocked by craggy debris, and searchers had to dig through five feet of dirt to get to the opening of the second cave. Bullet holes riddled the entrances to several caves and tunnels nearby.

“It’s not a best-case scenario,” Stinchon said.

Still, he said the mission was “very successful” and has created hope that the bodies of Genaust – and possibly others – may be found.

“This is an initial investigation,” he said. “We are definitely hopeful.”