POW/MIA Recognition Day

POW/MIA Recognition Day is observed annually in the United States on the third Friday of September. It’s a day dedicated to honoring and remembering the individuals who were prisoners of war (POWs) and those who are still missing in action (MIA), particularly in conflicts involving the U.S. military. The day is meant to recognize the sacrifices these service members made and to ensure they are never forgotten.

The History of POW/MIA Recognition Day:

The origins of POW/MIA Recognition Day trace back to the aftermath of the Vietnam War, but the recognition of missing soldiers and prisoners goes far beyond that conflict. Over 80,000 Americans are still considered missing in action from World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and even more recent conflicts like the Gulf War.

1970s-1980s: The Vietnam War, which saw a significant number of American prisoners taken and many soldiers listed as MIA, was when POW/MIA awareness started to really gain momentum. The U.S. government’s POW/MIA efforts and organizations like the National League of Families advocated for a National Day of Remembrance.

1989: Congress officially designated the third Friday of September as National POW/MIA Recognition Day.

Symbols:

Black and White Flag: The POW/MIA flag features the image of a solitary figure in profile, with a barbed wire fence and a watchtower in the background, symbolizing the captivity and isolation of POWs. It was designed in 1972 by Newt Heisley and became an official flag of the U.S. government in 1990.

Ceremonies: On this day, many public ceremonies take place across the country, including at military installations, veterans’ groups, and in the nation’s capital. These ceremonies typically feature moments of silence, the raising of the POW/MIA flag, and speeches honoring the sacrifices made by these individuals.

Moment of Remembrance: A common ritual is setting a chair at a table with symbolic items like a single white rose, a candle, and a Bible. This is often done to represent the absent soldiers.

Why It’s Important:

POW/MIA Recognition Day serves as a reminder of the enduring sacrifices made by service members, many of whom were captured and endured extreme hardships. The day also raises awareness about the need for continued efforts to bring closure to the families of missing service members. It reflects the commitment of the U.S. to leave no one behind, a phrase that is central to military values and the ethos of the armed forces.

This day also provides an opportunity for people to reflect on the broader costs of war and the long-lasting effects it has on those who serve and their families.