National Former Prisoner Of War Recognition Day

Categories:: Special Interest
Tags:: American Appreciation Historical
Where:: United States
Date change rule:: Every April 9
Holiday emoji:: 🇺🇸

National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, observed every April 9, honors the immense courage and sacrifice of American prisoners of war and those still missing in action. This solemn day calls us to remember their resilience and the profound cost of freedom. Take time to educate yourself on their history, support veteran organizations, and ensure their stories are never forgotten.

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Expected National Former Prisoner Of War Recognition Day Deals

On National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, the focus shifts from commercial deals to profound appreciation and support for our veterans. Many organizations, such as the National League of POW/MIA Families, coordinate events and fundraising drives to support former POWs and their families. Retailers and service providers often extend special discounts to veterans and active military members, sometimes expanding these offers on April 9. Look for opportunities to donate to charities like the Wounded Warrior Project or the Fisher House Foundation, which provide critical services. Additionally, veteran-owned businesses may highlight their services and contribute a portion of sales to related causes. We will update this page with confirmed live support initiatives as April 9 approaches.

Platform Guide for National Former Prisoner Of War Recognition Day

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #POWRecognitionDay. Share stories, tributes, and educational resources about former POWs and MIAs.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalPOWMIADay. Join discussions and share posts honoring the sacrifices of these brave individuals.

Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #POWRecognition. Share insights on military service, leadership, and the importance of supporting veterans in the workplace.

National Former Prisoner Of War Recognition Day Hero

Senator John McCain

A decorated naval aviator, Senator John McCain endured over five years as a prisoner of war in North Vietnam. His harrowing experience, including torture and refusing early release, became a symbol of resilience and unwavering commitment to his fellow service members. After his release, he served decades in Congress, becoming a vocal advocate for veterans and human rights.

History of National Former Prisoner Of War Recognition Day

War is a brutal act that humans have carried out ever since they learned to use sticks and stones as weapons. Prisoners of War (POW), the people who are captured by the opposition party as prisoners during the war, often endure atrocious treatment. National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day aims to honor those courageous fighters of the nation who had to endure

National Former Prisoners of War Recognition Day occurs on the anniversary of the Bataan Death march. On April 9, 1942, the United States Forces surrendered to the Imperial Japanese Army on the Bataan Peninsula. All Survivors were loaded to a box train and brought to Camp O’Donnell. During this march, POWs were physically abused and tortured, causing the death of over 500 Americans. This is called the Bataan Death March. Later, this action of the Japanese Army was judged to be a Japanese War Crime.

In 1984, former POWs led a movement to recognize April 9, the day of the Bataan Death March, as the National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day. On April 1, 1988, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed April 9 be set aside to recognize the brave veterans. Reagan announced the holiday through the Presidential Proclamation 5788, and congress agreed with the legislation. Since then, on this day, every year, government officials, veterans, civic and private organizations across the nation observe this day with ceremonies and events. They also fly the POW/MIA flag on National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day.

National Former Prisoner Of War Recognition Day timeline

1942

Japanese Troops Capture U.S. Forces

The largest number of U.S. Forces are captured by Japanese troops in the Bataan peninsula.

1973

Vietnam War Veterans Day

The last U.S. combat troops depart the Republic of Vietnam.

1984

The Start of The Movement

Former POWs lead the movement seeking a day recognizing POWs.

1988

Approval of The Legislation

Congress approves the legislation, setting April 9 as the National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day.

National Former Prisoner Of War Recognition Day FAQs

When is National Former Prisoner Of War Recognition Day?

National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day in 2027 will be observed on Friday, April 9. It’s a day dedicated to honoring the resilience and courage of those who endured captivity.

What is the significance of April 9 for POW Recognition Day?

The date of April 9 was chosen to commemorate the horrific Bataan Death March, a pivotal moment in World War II history that highlighted the extreme suffering of prisoners of war. It ensures this solemn anniversary is never forgotten.

How many Americans have been prisoners of war?

Throughout U.S. history, hundreds of thousands of American service members have endured the ordeal of being a prisoner of war. The Department of Defense continues its mission to recover and identify the remains of those still missing in action, a number that stands at over 81,000.

Is National Former Prisoner Of War Recognition Day a federal holiday?

While not designated as a federal holiday, April 9 is officially recognized by presidential proclamation each year. This ensures the day receives due respect and attention for its important mission of honoring former POWs.

How to Observe National Former Prisoner Of War Recognition Day

Organize a local event
Organize a local event to honor the sacrifices, endurance, and courage of former POWs and educate your local community.
Fly the POW flag
Fly the POW/MIA flag with your local community and ensure that you follow all the rules to observe this tradition with respect.
Invite a former POW
If you know a former POW, you can invite them, honor them, and hear about the astonishing stories of their lives.

5 Mind-Blowing Facts About POWs We Bet You Didn’t Know

POWs could work to earn money
Prisoners who are captured can work in prison and earn money.
POWs could enlist in the opposing army
Prisoners are usually tempted by the captors into gaining freedom by enlisting into their armies.
That is a lot!
More than 130,000 U.S. service members were POWs during World War II.
T.O.R.T.U.R.E
U.S. Navy POW, Jeremiah Denton, blinked out the word ‘torture’ in Morse code in a forced T.V. interview in North Vietnam.
They must be let go
After the end of a war, all POWs must be let go quickly.

Why National Former Prisoner Of War Recognition Day is Important

It’s a day of honor
National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day honors the often-underappreciated heroes of our nation.
We can appreciate them for their sacrifice
Prisoners of War did more than fight for the country, they sacrificed a major part of their life suffering in prison. This day is a way to show our appreciation.
It teaches us the cost of freedom
This day highlights the horrific incidents and sufferings that our fellow citizens endured in the war and teaches us that the freedom we enjoy today didn’t come easy.