National Day

National Pow/mia Recognition Day

Celebrated on 09/18/2026

Quick Fact

National POW/MIA Recognition Day is observed on the third Friday of September each year. It was first established in 1979 by a joint resolution of the U.S. Congress to honor the sacrifices of American prisoners of war and those still missing in action. The day is symbolized by the iconic black and white POW/MIA flag, which flies over the White House, the Capitol, and other government buildings.

Origins and Establishment of National Pow/mia Recognition Day

National POW/MIA Recognition Day was established through a joint resolution of the U.S. Congress on July 18, 1979. The resolution was signed into law by President Jimmy Carter, designating a day to honor the sacrifices of American prisoners of war (POWs) and those missing in action (MIA). The first official observance was held on July 18, 1979, but the date was later changed to the third Friday of September in 1986, as part of an amendment to the law. The shift aimed to create a more consistent and widely recognized date for the observance.

The establishment of this day was driven by the advocacy of veteran organizations, particularly the National League of Families of American Prisoners and Missing in Southeast Asia, which pushed for greater recognition of POW/MIA issues following the Vietnam War. The day serves as a reminder of the ongoing commitment to account for all missing service members and to support their families.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Over the years, National POW/MIA Recognition Day has evolved from a relatively obscure observance to a nationally recognized day of remembrance. In 1988, the POW/MIA flag was officially recognized by Congress and is now flown over the White House, the U.S. Capitol, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and other federal buildings on this day. Many state and local governments, as well as private organizations, also fly the flag to show support.

Modern commemorations include various ceremonies across the country, such as wreath-laying events, candlelight vigils, and moments of silence. Military installations often hold special programs, and the National League of Families organizes a major event at the Pentagon. The day also serves as a focal point for ongoing efforts to recover and identify missing service members, with the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) highlighting its work during this time. Social media campaigns and educational initiatives help raise awareness among the public.

Facts & General Observations

  • As of 2024, more than 81,000 American service members remain missing from past conflicts, including approximately 72,000 from World War II, 7,500 from the Korean War, and 1,500 from the Vietnam War.
  • The POW/MIA flag, featuring a silhouette of a prisoner with a guard tower and barbed wire, was designed by Newton Heisley in 1972 and first flown at the National League of Families' headquarters.
  • National POW/MIA Recognition Day is one of only three days each year when the POW/MIA flag is required to fly over the White House, the others being Armed Forces Day and Veterans Day.

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