The Lost Patrol is one of the most narrative-rich side quests in Fallout 4, tasking players with tracing the tragic fate of an earlier Brotherhood of Steel recon team. Traversing the dangerous Commonwealth requires tracking radio signals and retrieving key holotapes left behind by fallen soldiers. This guide breaks down every step of the quest, detailing exact holotape locations and how to bring the investigation to a satisfying conclusion.
Starting the Search Near Relay Tower 0MC-810
To begin tracking the lost recon unit, head toward the ruined structure located just north of Relay Tower 0MC-810. Tuning your Pip-Boy radio to the distress frequency will lead you directly to the fallen body of Knight Varham. Searching his remains yields the Battlefield Holotape, which unlocks the next clue in your search.
Listening to Varham's final recording reveals that the surviving squad members regrouped and moved toward a military installation. Players who regularly follow daily gaming news often highlight this mission for its excellent environmental storytelling and atmospheric radio tracking mechanics. Be prepared for minor wasteland hazards in the immediate surrounding ruins before moving on.
Investigating the National Guard Training Yard
Your search next leads to the National Guard Training Yard, situated in the north-central area of the map. Enter the recruitment office while maintaining focus on the radio signal, but remain cautious of feral ghouls lurking inside. Clear out the room to safely reach the body of Knight Astlin tucked away in the back corner.
Looting Astlin's body provides her holotape along with additional supplies. Playing her recording confirms the squad's desperate attempts to survive and directs you toward a major satellite facility. Take a moment to heal and prepare your loadout before heading out to the next destination.
Clearing the Revere Satellite Array
The third signal originates from the Revere Satellite Array, an elevated area fortified heavily by Super Mutants. Approach the site with heavy firepower or stealth, as fighting off the mutant defenders can quickly become intense. Search the wooden shacks built atop the array structures to locate Scribe Faris.
On Faris's body, you will discover his holotape as well as the essential entry code for Recon Bunker Theta. Listening to his message piecing together the squad's final moments grants the location of the sole survivor of the expedition. Make sure to gather all local loot before departing for the northern edge of the map.
Confronting Paladin Brandis at Recon Bunker Theta
Travel to Recon Bunker Theta, located near the northern border of the Commonwealth. Interact with the access terminal outside and enter the retrieved password to unlock the blast door. Inside the bunker sits Paladin Brandis, who has lived isolated in paranoia for three years believing everyone was lost.
You can choose to resolve the encounter peacefully through persuasion speech checks or defeat him in combat. Successfully convincing Brandis to return to the Brotherhood allows you to later meet him aboard the Prydwen to receive the unique Survivor's Special laser gun. Completing the dialog options finishes the quest and rewards significant experience points.
