Sept. 21 is National POW/MIA Recognition Day
Today, there are still more than 80,000 American troops missing in action. The American Legion Family is dedicated to ensuring that America’s POW/MIAs are honored and recognized, not just memorialized.
Legion efforts also focus on the need to account as fully as possible for those still missing, alive, or dead. An important way all Legion Family members create awareness and remembrance for this initiative — while honoring the service of those troops — is by having POW/MIA remembrance services at unit meetings and public events. Strong, united support by all Legion Family members is crucial to bringing all of our heroes home.
A great time to do this is on National POW/MIA Recognition Day, which is annually recognized on the third Friday in September. This commemoration is set aside to honor the commitment and sacrifices made by this nation’s prisoners of war and those who are still missing in action, as well as their families. The U.S. president signs a proclamation each year.
Typical items required for a remembrance service:
What the items represent:
The small table is set for one – symbolizing the fact that our armed forces personnel are missing from our ranks. They are referred to as POWs (Prisoners of War) and MIAs (Missing in Action).
In the spirit of Service, Not Self, the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support The American Legion and to honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of our veterans, military, and their families, both at home and abroad. For God and Country, we advocate for veterans, educate our citizens, mentor youth, and promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace and security.