National POW/MIA Recognition Day

POW/MIA Flag

About National POW/MIA Recognition Day

When is National POW/MIA Recognition Day? This holiday is observed on the third Friday in September

POW/MIA Recognition Day is a day of remembrance and hope for the speedy and safe return of American prisoners of war and those still missing in action. This applies to service members from all wars and military operations. It also seeks the return of the remains of fallen soldiers.

The first official commemoration of POW/MIAs was on July 18, 1979. It was the result of resolutions passed in Congress. The first national ceremony was held on this date. Over the next several years, it was held at varying dates of the year. Finally, in 1986, The National League of Families proposed the third Friday in September as a day to recognize and remember POW/MIAs. Nor is the date associated with any wars. Each year, the president of the United States issues a proclamation on this day.

Did you know? Federal law requires facilities to fly the POW/MIA flag on the following days:

  • Armed Forces Day, May 16
  • Memorial Day, May 25
  • Flag Day, June 14
  • Independence Day, July 4
  • National POW/MIA Recognition Day, 3rd Friday of September
  • Veterans Day, Nov. 11

You will also notice the POW/MIA flag flown at all US Post office buildings, Veterans Administration, military memorial facilities, and many U.S. government buildings. Many businesses and organizations fly it, too.  Likewise, you can and should fly it on your flagpole at home.

How Many Military Personnel are Missing in Action?

Since World War II, an estimated 81,000 to 82,000 American service members are currently listed as Missing in Action. Of this number, almost 72,000 are from World War II.

While no military personnel are currently listed as prisoners of War, that can change at any time. Since the Revolutionary War, over 500,000 Americans have been a Prisoner of War.

How to Observe National POW/MIA Recognition Day

Certainly, this a somber observance due to the fact that some military personnel have not come home. As a result, their loved ones have not had closure.

  • Please take a few moments today, to remember our missing soldiers, and those held as prisoners of war.

  • Attend a ceremony in your area.

  • Say a prayer for POWs and MIAs.

  • Also, write to your senators and congressman to urge continued and increased effort towards bringing every serviceman and servicewoman home.

  • Fly the POW/MIA flag.
  • If you come in contact with someone who was once a POW, give them a warm thanks for their sacrifice.

National POW/MIA Recognition Day Quote

“There was never a good war, or a bad peace.” – – Benjamin Franklin



More About Today

This Day in History – Indeed, many other important events occurred on this date. See what happened on this date in history.

Famous September Birthdays – Did you ever wonder what famous people share your birth date? If so, then find out now!

Recipe of the Day: Pumpkin Fudge

Also See: Fall Recipes and Holiday Recipes and Garden Recipes

Flower of the Day: Tithonia

Ecards Send a free Ecard daily for National POW/MIA Recognition Day or just about any September calendar holiday, occasion, observance, or event. Or, just for the fun of it!

Holiday Insights, where every day in September is a holiday, a bizarre or wacky day, an observance, or a special event. So, please join us in the daily calendar fun each and every day of the year.

Did You Know? Furthermore, in addition to National POW/MIA Recognition Day, there are literally thousands of daily holidays, special events, and observances, more than one for every day of the year. Many of these holidays are new. People and organizations are creating new holidays on a regular basis. September holidays are no exception. At Holiday Insights, we take great efforts to thoroughly research and document the details of each one, as completely and accurately as possible.