National POW/MIA Recognition Day
Honor those who have served and sacrificed for our country this National POW/MIA Recognition Day - never forget their bravery!
Yearly DateThird Friday in Sep
TypeDay
ClassObservance
Category
Special Interest
Country
United states
Introduction
Every year, we set aside a special day to remember the brave men and women who stood on the front lines but never made it back to their families. National POW/MIA Recognition Day is a deeply personal time for Americans to reflect on the sacrifices of those who were held as Prisoners of War and those who remain Missing in Action. It’s more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a promise we make as a nation to keep searching, to keep hoping, and to never let their stories fade. Whether you're flying the black and white flag or attending a local vigil, this day is about honoring the "You Are Not Forgotten" spirit that defines our gratitude toward our heroes.
🇺🇸 National POW/MIA Recognition Day Countdown
Saturday
18
September 2027
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National POW/MIA Recognition Day Timeline
1979
POW/MIA Recognition Day Established
President Jimmy Carter proclaimed a national day of remembrance for POWs and MIAs, establishing the third Friday of September as the official day.
1980
First Official Observance
In 1980, the first official National POW/MIA Recognition Day observance was held, with activities centered at the Pentagon and other military installations.
1982
POW/MIA Flag Created
The National League of Families POW/MIA Flag, symbolizing the nation's remembrance and continued concern for those missing or captured, was officially recognized by Congress.
1995
Observance Enlarged
The observance was expanded to involve commemorative ceremonies and activities throughout the country, including U.S. military installations all over the world.
2014
Expanded Search Efforts
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) was established to consolidate all POW and MIA search efforts, reemphasizing the country's commitment to accounting for all missing servicemen and women.
2015
POW/MIA Flag Display Rule
Congress ordered the POW/MIA flag to be displayed on all federal properties on National POW/MIA Recognition Day, ensuring the nation remembers this day and the sacrifices made.
How to Celebrate National POW/MIA Recognition Day
1
Fly the POW/MIA Flag
Flying the POW/MIA flag is a great way to recognize and show support for those who serve or have served in the military. You can purchase a POW/MIA flag online or at your local military surplus store.
2
Organize a fundraising event
Organizing a fundraising event is an excellent way to show your support for current soldiers and those who have served in the past. Use the funds you raise to help veterans and their families.
3
Volunteer at a veteran's organization
Volunteer at a veteran's organization, such as the American Legion or the Veterans of Foreign Wars, to help recognize and honor those who have served. You could help organize events, collect donations, or assist with office work.
4
Attend a memorial service
Check with your local government to see if there are any memorial services in your area to honor those who have been held as prisoners of war and/or remain missing in action.
5
Write letters to veterans
Write letters of gratitude to veterans thanking them for their service and sacrifice. You can also write letters to families of POWs/MIAs expressing your sympathies and appreciation.
Why National POW/MIA Recognition Day is Important
A
It honors the sacrifice of veterans
National POW/MIA Recognition Day is an important day to recognize and honor the brave men and women who served our country with courage and dignity, many of whom never made it home. It is a somber reminder of the sacrifices these individuals made for our freedom.
B
It raises awareness
National POW/MIA Recognition Day serves as an opportunity to raise public awareness of the still unresolved issues regarding those service members listed as missing in action or prisoners of war. It reminds us that we can never stop fighting for answers and justice for those who gave everything in service to our nation.
C
It shows respect & gratitude
Not only does National POW/MIA recognition Day allow us to honor the past, but it also gives us an opportunity to show appreciation for those currently serving or have served in the armed forces. We reflect upon the great debt we owe them for protecting our rights and freedoms, and demonstrate how much we value their sacrifice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is National POW/MIA Recognition Day?
It is a day dedicated to honoring Americans who were prisoners of war and those who are still missing in action from all past and present conflicts.
When is National POW/MIA Recognition Day observed?
This year, the nation gathers to honor our heroes on Friday, September 18th, 2026, keeping the tradition of the third Friday in September alive.
Is National POW/MIA Recognition Day a federal holiday?
No, it is not a federal public holiday, but it is a national observance where the POW/MIA flag is flown at major government locations.
Why is the POW/MIA flag black and white?
The stark black and white colors symbolize the sorrow, anxiety, and hope associated with those who have not yet returned home.
What does MIA stand for?
MIA stands for Missing in Action, referring to service members whose whereabouts are unknown after a battle or mission.
What does POW stand for?
POW stands for Prisoner of War, describing service members who were captured and held by enemy forces during a conflict.
Who created the POW/MIA flag?
The flag was created by Newt Heisley in 1971 for the National League of POW/MIA Families to bring awareness to the missing.
What is a Missing Man Table?
It is a small, symbolic dinner table set with an empty chair at military events to represent fallen or missing service members who cannot be present.
Why is there salt on the Missing Man Table?
The salt symbolizes the tears shed by the families who are still waiting for their loved ones to come home.
How many Americans are still missing in action?
There are over 80,000 Americans still unaccounted for from conflicts dating back to World War II.
Where should the POW/MIA flag be flown?
It is often flown directly below the American flag at post offices, memorials, and government buildings across the United States.
How can I show support on this day?
You can show support by wearing a POW/MIA pin, flying the flag, or simply taking a moment of silence to honor the families.
Why is it held on the third Friday of September?
This date was chosen because it does not conflict with other holidays and allows the nation to focus solely on this important cause.
What is the main message of this day?
The central message is "You Are Not Forgotten," a promise that the United States will continue to search for its missing heroes.
Top Emojis for National POW/MIA Recognition Day
🇺🇸
The Colors of Bravery
This classic flag reminds us of the country these heroes served and the freedom they fought to protect.
🕯️
A Light for the Lost
Many families light a candle on this day as a silent prayer and a way to guide the spirits of the missing home.
🎗️
The Ribbon of Remembrance
The yellow ribbon is a timeless American symbol of waiting and hoping for the safe return of our service members.
🖤
A Heart of Honor
This black heart represents the solemnity of the day and the deep respect we hold for those who endured so much.
🫡
The Ultimate Salute
A simple, powerful gesture to show veterans and their families that their sacrifice is seen and deeply appreciated.
🕊️
Hope for Peace
This symbolizes our collective wish for peace for the families who are still waiting for answers about their loved ones.
🚩
The Promise Kept
Inspired by the POW/MIA flag, this represents our national commitment to never forget those left behind.
National POW/MIA Recognition Day Dates
Year
Date
Day
2025
Sep 19
Friday
2026
Sep 18
Friday
2027
Sep 17
Friday
2028
Sep 15
Friday
2029
Sep 21
Friday
