Every year, on the third Friday of September, Americans come together to honor and remember the sacrifices made by our nation’s brave service members who were prisoners of war (POWs) or are still missing in action (MIA). In 2025, National POW/MIA Recognition Day falls on September 19. This solemn day is a time to reflect, educate, and pay tribute to those who endured unimaginable hardships and to the families who continue to seek answers about their loved ones.
Why Do We Celebrate National POW/MIA Recognition Day?
The day serves as a reminder of the profound sacrifices made by service members who endured captivity or remain unaccounted for. It is a time for the nation to acknowledge their bravery and reaffirm its commitment to bringing all missing heroes home. The day also highlights the importance of never forgetting the men and women who fought for our freedoms and the families who await their return.
The History Behind the Day
National POW/MIA Recognition Day was first established in 1979 by a proclamation from President Jimmy Carter. The day was created to honor the 142,000 American service members held as prisoners of war and the over 83,000 who remain missing. The date was chosen to raise awareness and keep their memory alive, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten.
The iconic black-and-white POW/MIA flag, featuring the silhouette of a man, a watchtower, and barbed wire, is a powerful symbol associated with this day. Designed in 1972 by Mary Hoff, the wife of a missing soldier, the flag continues to fly on National POW/MIA Recognition Day as a visual reminder of the nation’s commitment to these heroes.
How Is It Observed?
National POW/MIA Recognition Day is marked by ceremonies, vigils, and moments of silence across the United States. The Pentagon hosts a formal ceremony, attended by military officials, veterans, and families of POWs and MIAs. Communities also organize events such as parades, educational programs, and flag-raising ceremonies to honor the day.
Many Americans choose to wear POW/MIA bracelets bearing the name of a missing or captive service member. Others volunteer with organizations dedicated to locating and identifying remains or supporting the families of the missing. Schools and historical societies often use the day as an opportunity to teach younger generations about the sacrifices made by our armed forces.
Fun Facts About National POW/MIA Recognition Day
- The POW/MIA flag is the only flag, other than the American flag, to have flown over the White House.
- The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) works tirelessly to locate and identify missing service members. Since its inception, it has accounted for over 1,500 previously missing individuals.
- The phrase “You Are Not Forgotten,” displayed on the POW/MIA flag, has become a profound national commitment.
How You Can Make a Difference
Want to honor our POWs and MIAs this year? Here are a few ideas:
- Attend or organize a local commemoration event in your community.
- Donate to organizations that support POW/MIA families or conduct recovery missions.
- Educate others about the day by sharing its history and significance on social media.
- Fly the POW/MIA flag as a symbol of remembrance and support.
As September 19, 2025, approaches, let’s come together to ensure the sacrifices of our nation’s heroes are never forgotten. Every small action can make a big difference in keeping their memory alive and supporting their families.
