You Are Not Forgotten: Honoring Former Prisoners of War
Reflecting on the resilience and sacrifice of America’s captured service members.
Honoring Courage, Sacrifice, and Unyielding Spirit
Although many of us wish to experience peaceful times, it is the military service members who are at the front lines, prepared to protect their nation in both tranquility and turmoil. Their courage is frequently challenged in ways beyond comprehension- confronting peril, harm, and even imprisonment. National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, celebrated every year on April 9, is a respectful homage to American service members who suffered the traumatic ordeal of being captured as prisoners of war (POWs), and to those who remain missing in action (MIA). It’s a moment to consider their bravery, dedication, and the significant cost they bore for the liberties we have today.
Background of National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day
The importance of April 9 arises from a sorrowful and significant occurrence in World War II- the Bataan Death March of 1942. Following the defeat at Bataan in the Philippines, many thousands of American and Filipino soldiers were compelled by Japanese troops to trek about 66 miles in extreme heat, lacking adequate food, water, or medical assistance. Throughout their journey, they endured harsh treatment, brutality, and widespread killings. It is estimated that more than 10,000 inmates died throughout the march. The Bataan Death March emerged as a strong emblem of the suffering faced by POWs and the strength they exhibited in the face of unthinkable challenges.
To pay tribute to their memory and acknowledge all former prisoners of war, Congress enacted a law in 1988 designating April 9 as National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day. Each year, the President of the United States releases a proclamation to commemorate this day, encouraging Americans to take a moment to recognize the bravery of POWs and the anxiety experienced by the families of those who remain missing in action.
The Significance of Remembrance
Since the Revolutionary War, it is estimated that more than 500,000 American military personnel have been captured as prisoners of war. These courageous people sacrificed not just their freedom but often their health and well-being for the benefit of their nation. Numerous individuals came back home with physical or emotional wounds, whereas some did not return at all.
The accounts of ex-POWs are proof of the resilience of the human spirit and the unwavering determination of those who serve. These people frequently suffered through prolonged periods of imprisonment, solitude, starvation, and torment, yet maintained hope and a strong sense of obligation.
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Methods to Commemorate Their Sacrifice
Numerous significant ways exist to commemorate National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, whether via personal reflection or community participation:
- Go to a POW/MIA Memorial: Throughout the United States, memorials exist to pay tribute to POWs and those who are missing in action. Locations such as the Andersonville National Historic Site in Georgia, along with memorials in Jacksonville, Florida, and Winchester, Virginia, provide opportunities for learning and quiet areas for reflection.
- Show the POW/MIA Flag: Initially created in 1972, the black-and-white POW/MIA flag showcases a soldier’s silhouette, a watchtower, and barbed wire, accompanied by the impactful statement: “You Are Not Forgotten.” Showing this flag at your home, workplace, or school is a clear way to express your support and remembrance.
- Inform Yourself and Others: Dedicate time to explore personal stories of ex-POWs or check official resources such as the U.S. Department of Defense to understand better the continuing initiatives aimed at accounting for missing military personnel. Convey your knowledge to others—particularly to younger generations- to make sure these sacrifices remain in memory.
A Permanent Homage
National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day stands as a strong reminder that liberty comes at a cost. It pays tribute to the remarkable courage of those who faced imprisonment and those whose destinies are still uncertain. Let us take this day to convey profound appreciation, to honor their sacrifices, and to pledge to always remember the price of freedom.
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