National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day 2023 History Activities
National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day
Every year on April 9th, the United States observes National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day. The day is dedicated to paying tribute to the sacrifices and experiences of former prisoners of war (POWs) and acknowledging their service and commitment to their country.
National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day (Getty)
President Ronald Reagan established this day through a proclamation signed on April 8, 1988. The purpose of the day is to honor the more than 500,000 Americans who were held captive as POWs since the American Revolutionary War.
Americans are encouraged to honor the bravery and sacrifice of former POWs, along with their families, who also suffered significant hardships during their loved one's captivity. The day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought to protect our country and the freedoms we cherish today.
National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day History
April 9th marks National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day in the United States. This day is observed annually to pay tribute to the courageous men and women who served in the U.S. military and were once held captive as prisoners of war (POWs).
In 1987, a congressional resolution established this day, which was later signed into law by President Ronald Reagan. The date was chosen to commemorate the day in 1942 when U.S. forces in the Philippines surrendered to the Japanese, resulting in thousands of American troops being taken as prisoners of war.
This day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by all American prisoners of war, including those held captive during World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and other conflicts. It is a time to reflect on the courage and resilience of those who endured unimaginable hardships and suffering.
On National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, Americans are encouraged to fly the U.S. flag to show their support and appreciation for former POWs and their families. Various organizations hold events and ceremonies to honor these brave individuals and raise awareness about their experiences.
National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day Activities
National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day is an annual observance in the United States on April 9th. The day serves as a reminder to honor and remember the sacrifices and experiences of former prisoners of war.
To commemorate this day, you can consider participating in various activities such as attending a ceremony or event hosted by organizations and veterans' groups, visiting a veteran who was a former prisoner of war to express gratitude and learn about their experiences, donating to veteran organizations that support former prisoners of war and their families, learning more about the experiences and challenges faced by former prisoners of war by reading books or watching documentaries, and sharing a post on social media to raise awareness about this day and show support for former prisoners of war.
Through these activities, you can show your appreciation for the service and sacrifice of former prisoners of war and their families and help honor and recognize their contributions to the country.
