The Shadow
National POW/MIA Recognition Day is an annual observance in the United States dedicated to honoring and remembering the sacrifices of American service members who were prisoners of war (POW) and those who are still missing in action (MIA). This day serves as a reminder of the nation’s commitment to accounting for every service member who has not returned home and to recognizing the courage and resilience of those who endured captivity. It is a time to reflect on the cost of war and to express gratitude for the bravery and dedication of those who have served and continue to service our country. National POW/MIA Recognition Day was first observed in 1979, following a proclamation by Jimmy Carter. It is always observed on the third Friday in September.
As of June 3, 2024, the number of Americans missing and unaccounted for from the Vietnam War was 1,576. The distribution is as follows: Vietnam – 1,237, Laos – 284, Cambodia – 48; People’s Republic of China territorial waters – 7. These numbers fluctuate due to new investigations resulting in changes to loss locations – Vietnam Veterans of America
Things to do to celebrate POW/MIA Recognition Day:
Fly the POW/MIA Fag
Support POW/MIA organizations
Write a letter of support to families of POWs/MIAs
Watch a movie – Uncommon Valor, Missing in Action and Rescue Dawn to name a few
Listen to a patriotic song – Star Spangled Banner, American Soldier by Toby Keith and Proud to be an
American by Lee Greenwood. Recently at a church celebration David Crosier gave a powerful
version of this song with Old Glory in the background. It made everyone in the room
PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN. Let us never forget the sacrifices made by so many for our country. As we travel to the Vietnam Wall That Heals October 3 – October 6 to honor the fallen, let us also remember the POW/MIA service men who have not come home.
