Honoring Former POWs on Recognition Day

April 9th marks a significant day in the United States - National Former Prisoner of War (POW) Recognition Day. This day holds immense importance as it's dedicated to honoring and acknowledging the sacrifices, courage, and resilience of individuals who endured being prisoners of war while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. It serves as a reminder of the human cost of war and pays tribute to the indomitable human spirit that prevails even in the darkest times.

The History of Former POW Recognition Day

The inception of National Former POW Recognition Day can be traced back to a deep-rooted recognition of the sacrifices made by POWs throughout American history. Over the years, in various conflicts such as World Wars I and II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Gulf War, numerous American servicemembers have been held captive by enemy forces.

However, Former POW Recognition Day didn’t become an official holiday until April 8, 1987, after the 100th Congress passed a joint resolution that was later enacted into law by President Ronald Reagan. The selected day, April 9th, is marked in remembrance of the surrender of approximately 60,000 to 80,000 American and Filipino soldiers to the Japanese forces on the Bataan Peninsula in the Philippines in 1942.

Further resolutions extended the recognition of former POWs for April 9, 1988, and 1989, which President Reagan signed on March 28, 1988. As per this law, it is a requirement for the current President to issue a yearly proclamation to observe this significant day.

The Resilience and Heroism of Former POWs

Being a POW encompasses traumatic experiences marked by physical and psychological torment, including lack of food, water, medical care, isolation, torture, and the ever-present uncertainty about one's fate. The long-term repercussions of these experiences often include persistent health issues like PTSD, chronic pain, and cognitive impairments.

Despite facing these unimaginable challenges, former POWs have exhibited remarkable courage, resilience, and loyalty. Their stories are ones of heroism – resisting captors, covertly communicating with fellow soldiers, and sometimes, making the ultimate sacrifice for their comrades or principles. These acts of bravery and sacrifice serve as a powerful inspiration, reminding us of the freedoms and security we often take for granted and highlighting the profound contributions of those who have served and sacrificed for our country.

Participating in Former POW Recognition Day: A Call to Action

National Former POW Recognition Day presents an opportunity to show our gratitude and respect for these brave individuals. It’s a day to engage in or support commemorative activities, such as wreath-laying ceremonies, parades, reunions, and educational events. Additionally, it's a fitting occasion to proudly display the American flag or the POW/MIA flag at homes and public buildings, symbolizing our nation's unwavering commitment and remembrance.

Most importantly, it's a day to amplify awareness about the ongoing challenges former POWs face, including healthcare, employment, and social reintegration, and to endorse the work of organizations that assist and advocate for them and their families. Some of these organizations include American Ex-Prisoners of War, Disabled American Veterans, and the Wounded Warrior Project. By amplifying this awareness, we not only pay tribute to their sacrifices but also spread a message of solidarity and remembrance throughout our communities.

A Day of Reflection and Gratitude

This April 9th, let’s take a moment to reflect on and appreciate the sacrifices made by American POWs. It's a time to honor their unwavering courage and resilience and to commit ourselves to supporting our military personnel, past and present. By recognizing their service and sacrifice, we uphold the values of freedom and resilience that define our nation.