Submitted by
Otto M. Walker American Legion Post 49
For years, The American Legion supported a National POW/MIA Recognition Day, which is now recognized annually on the third Friday of September. This commemoration is set aside to honor the commitment and sacrifices made by this nation’s prisoners of war and those who are still missing in action, as well as their families.
Until July 18, 1979, no commemoration was held to honor POW/MIAs. In the first year, Congress passed resolutions and the national ceremony was held at the National Cathedral in Washington. The 1st Tactical Squadron from Langley Air Force Base in Virginia flew the Missing Man formation. A poster was published by the Veterans Administration which contained only the letters POW/MIA. That continued until 1982, when a black and white drawing of a POW in captivity was used to show the urgency of the situation.
Every year, National POW/MIA Recognition Day legislation was introduced until 1985, when Congress determined that commemorative days would no longer be considered. The president now signs a proclamation each year.
The National League of Families proposed the third Friday of September as a commemoration date. Most of the National POW/MIA Recognition Day ceremonies have taken place at the Pentagon. Now, they are held throughout the nation and around the world on military installations, ships, schools, churches, etc. The focus is to ensure that America remembers its responsibility to stand behind those who serve it and to make sure that we do all that is possible to account for those who have not returned.
On Sept. 16 at 6 p.m. (1800 hours), students from the Jefferson County Home School Association will perform “The empty chair ceremony” commemorating our fallen and missing heroes. The public is invited to come to the Otto M. Walker American Legion Post 49, located at 1065 S. Water St. and observe this ceremony. This event is a part of the “Americanism” program promoted nationwide by The American Legion.
For further information about this event, contact Post 49 Sergeant at Arms Frank Kolb, III at (850) 491-1262.