Each year, on the third Friday of September, the United States observes National POW/MIA Recognition Day, a solemn occasion dedicated to honoring American service members who were held as prisoners of war (POWs) and remembering those still missing in action (MIA). It is a day to recognize the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of these heroes, as well as to reaffirm the nation’s commitment to bringing every missing American home.
The observance was first established in 1979 by President Jimmy Carter and has been recognized annually ever since. Ceremonies take place across the country, from the White House and military bases to veterans’ organizations, state capitols, and schools. The POW/MIA flag, with its stark black-and-white design and powerful words “You Are Not Forgotten,” is flown proudly alongside the American flag as a symbol of the nation’s enduring promise to account for every missing warrior.
This day serves as a reminder of the extraordinary hardships endured by prisoners of war—men and women who faced unimaginable conditions yet held onto hope and honor. It also underscores the deep pain carried by families of the missing, who continue to wait for answers and closure.
National POW/MIA Recognition Day is not only about memory, but also about action. The Department of Defense’s Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) continues its critical mission of locating, identifying, and repatriating the remains of missing service members. Their work reflects America’s commitment to ensuring that no sacrifice is ever forgotten.
On this day, Americans are encouraged to pause, reflect, and pay tribute—whether by attending a local ceremony, displaying the POW/MIA flag, or simply taking a moment of silence. By doing so, we honor the legacy of those who gave everything for freedom and ensure their memory lives on.
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