Dean was classified as a POW-MIA although he was a civilian, leading to speculation that he was working for the Central Intelligence Agency. According to Howard Dean, his parents believed this to be true, though Howard Dean does not.
Dean was listed as a POW-MIA, yet he was a non-combatant, causing speculation about his possible involvement with the Central Intelligence Agency. According to Howard Dean, his parents believed this to be accurate, but Howard Dean disputes it.