Description
Honor the sacrifices made by our servicemembers with this POW/MIA flag, a dedication to all those who were held captive by enemy forces or disappeared during the conflict. This flag is required to be flown at military institutions and war memorials, though civilians and businesses are encouraged to fly it as well. Fly this high-quality, American-made prisoner-of-war flag proudly and help ensure no heroes are ever forgotten.
Our POW MIA flags are available in a variety of different sizes, materials, and finishes. Read more below to determine which combination of options best suits your needs.
Single vs Double-Sided POW/MIA Flag
Both indoor and outdoor POW flags are available in single- and double-sided versions. The single/reverse option has the emblem printed correctly on the front of the flag and shows through the back as a mirrored or reversed image.
Double-sided flags are designed by stitching two flags and a liner together so that the emblem and text are correct on both sides. They are much heavier than single/reverse ones and may weigh too much for use on some wall-mounted flagpoles. Learn more about the differences between single- and double-sided flags on our blog.
Outdoor POW/MIA Flag
Our POW/MIA flags are proudly manufactured in the United States and digitally printed to ensure a detailed and precise design. They come equipped with a robust canvas header and brass grommets for secure mounting from one of our outdoor flagpoles.
We offer the double-sided outdoor MIA flag in two different materials: nylon and polyester. Nylon is a standard fabric used for flags, chosen for its lightweight nature and ability to dry quickly. Polyester is a more heavy-duty material recommended for use in regions with strong winds or saltwater environments. If you aren’t sure which material is right for you, check out our blog, which compares different flag fabrics.
Outdoor POW/MIA Flag Features
- Constructed in the USA
- Authentic 1972 design
- Strong canvas header
- Rust-resistant brass grommets
Indoor POW/MIA Flag
We offer the POW-MIA flag with fringe as a ceremonial version of its outdoor counterpart for indoor displays. This flag is suitable for formal displays in government offices, military institutions, veterans’ clubs, and more.
The indoor POW flag is available in various options, including fringe color and single—or double-sided. The POW/MIA flag with gold fringe uses the same fringe as our other indoor flags, while the POW/MIA flag with white fringe is a unique option. We recommend getting the version with gold fringe if you plan to display the flag alongside other indoor flags and wish to create a visually unified presentation. Alternatively, you may choose the white fringe to preserve the black-and-white color scheme.
Each indoor MIA POW flag is finished with a pole sleeve and leather tabs for secure installation on any standard indoor flagpole. Learn more about setting up an indoor display set on our blog.
Indoor POW/MIA Flag Features
- Proudly made in America
- Authentic 1972 design
- 100% premium nylon
- Honorably enriched with gold or white fringe
- Secure pole sleeve
- Durable leather tabs
Note: Flags with fringe are not built for outdoor display. Limit outdoor exposure when possible, and handle the flag with specialized tools during parades and ceremonies.
POW MIA Flag Meaning & History
The iconic POW/MIA flag was created in 1972 to honor prisoners of war and fallen heroes from the Vietnam War. For decades, it’s been flown as a meaningful tribute to our veterans and service members, usually on holidays such as Memorial Day and Veterans Day. On Veterans Day 2019, President Trump signed a federal law requiring that the POW/MIA flag be flown at all major military institutions and national war memorials year-round.
The prisoner of war flag was designed by Newt Heisley, who had served in the US Army Air Forces during World War II. He based the image of the captive soldier on a picture of his son Jeffrey, a Marine who was preparing to ship out to Vietnam. The phrase “You Are Not Forgotten” was also created by Heisley, who had worried about being taken prisoner and ultimately forgotten while flying air missions in WWII.
POW MIA Flag Etiquette
When flying the POW/MIA flag on the same flag pole as the United States flag, it should always be flown below the United States flag, never above. It should never be larger than the United States flag. Always ensure your POW/MIA flag is directly to the right of the United States flag from the viewer’s perspective when flying on a separate pole. Generally, the flag should be flown on Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, National POW/MIA Recognition Day (3rd Friday in September), and Veterans Day.
We can't believe we have to say this, but...
DISCLAIMER: THIS IS NOT A MOTORCYCLE FLAG. IT IS DISRESPECTFUL TO FLY ANY REGULAR FLAG ON A VEHICLE OVER 20 MPH.
