POW/MIA | DAV
POW/MIA stands for prisoner of war/missing in action, representing those who were captured or went missing while serving our country. Learn about the significance of the POW/MIA flag, National POW/MIA Recognition Day and the Vietnam War POW/MIA veterans.
According to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), more than 82,000 American service members are missing in action.
POW/MIA flag
The POW/MIA flag is a powerful symbol representing the brave men and women who have been prisoners of war or are missing in action. Its design, with a stark black background and the silhouette of a gaunt soldier, a guard tower and barbed wire, serves as a constant reminder of their sacrifice and the ongoing efforts to bring them home. The white “POW/MIA” letters above the silhouette emphasize the focus of the flag.
The flag’s creation dates to the Vietnam War era, conceived by the National League of Families of American Prisoners and Missing in Southeast Asia in the early 1970s. It gained widespread recognition and was officially adopted by the United States Congress in 1990 as the symbol of America’s commitment to resolving the issue of prisoners of war and those missing in action.
National POW/MIA Recognition Day
National POW/MIA Recognition Day is observed annually on the third Friday in September. This day serves to honor and remember the sacrifices of prisoners of war and those missing in action while serving in the armed forces. It is a solemn occasion to pay tribute to their unwavering courage, dedication and sacrifice.
Communities across the nation organize various commemorative events, such as ceremonies, parades and candlelight vigils, offering opportunities to express gratitude and solidarity with the families of POW/MIA veterans. Wearing a POW/MIA bracelet and displaying a POW/MIA flag are additional ways to show support and keep the memory of these brave individuals alive.
Understanding the significance of this day helps us acknowledge the challenges faced by those who served and their families. At DAV, we’re dedicated to supporting and advocating for veterans, including those who have been POWs or are still missing. Join us in honoring their service and standing united in our commitment to never forget.
Vietnam War POW/MIA
The Vietnam War POW/MIA issue remains a significant and emotional topic, even decades after the war ended. Thousands of American servicemen were captured or went missing during the war, leaving a lasting impact on the nation. The uncertainty surrounding their fates has driven ongoing efforts to resolve these cases.
DAV has been instrumental in advocating for the rights and well-being of veterans. Through outreach, DAV raises awareness about the issue and supports initiatives aimed at locating and identifying missing servicemen. Our organization also assists families in navigating the complex process of accessing benefits and resources.
The Vietnam War POW/MIA issue serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served and the duty to honor and remember those who haven’t yet returned home. Resolving these cases is essential to bring closure to families and to uphold the commitment to never leave anyone behind.
We encourage readers to learn more about POW/MIA veterans and disabled veterans. By understanding their stories and challenges, we can ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten and can continue to support the ongoing efforts to bring them home. Below you’ll find links to several DAV stories highlighting this crucial issue.
Finding, identifying and repatriating Americans missing in action is a core mission of DPAA. It operates globally, with teams traveling to battlefields in the hopes of discovering those still waiting to come home. DAV has supported several DPAA Family Member Updates by providing food and other refreshments for our family members.
DAV has also highlighted recovery operations, ranging from World War I to Vietnam, as well as shined a light on what former POWs endured during their captivity. By keeping these issues alive, we can properly honor these service members’ service and sacrifice.
