National POW/MIA Recognition Day

National POW/MIA Recognition Day is observed annually on the third Friday of September. In 2026, this date falls on September 18. This solemn day honors the courage and sacrifice of American service members who were prisoners of war or who remain missing in action, and it stands as a national pledge to never forget their service.

History of National POW/MIA Recognition Day

President Jimmy Carter established National POW/MIA Recognition Day in 1979. The day was created to honor veterans who were held as prisoners of war and those who remain unaccounted for from past conflicts. Each year, the President issues a Presidential Proclamation to commemorate the day, and the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency designs a poster that recognizes the debt owed to those who sacrificed their freedom so that the nation might enjoy peace and liberty.

The observance has grown to include ceremonies, family member updates, and community events across the country. The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, which is responsible for accounting for the nearly 81,000 Americans still missing from World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Cold War, uses this day to connect with families and share updates on identification efforts. The 2026 poster, unveiled at a Family Member Update in Charleston, South Carolina, features the Gold Star, the POW/MIA Flag, and the Warrior Ethos to symbolize the nation's commitment to providing answers to families.

Why is National POW/MIA Recognition Day important?

This day is a vital reminder of the enduring promise the United States makes to its service members and their families: that no one will be left behind. For the families of the missing, the uncertainty and grief can last for decades. National POW/MIA Recognition Day provides a moment for the nation to collectively acknowledge their sacrifice and to reaffirm the commitment to achieve the fullest possible accounting of all personnel.

The day also highlights the ongoing work of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, which uses advanced forensic science and DNA technology to identify remains recovered from around the world. Family members are encouraged to provide DNA samples to help in this mission. The observance ensures that the stories of those who served and sacrificed are not forgotten, and it strengthens the bond between the military, the government, and the families who wait for answers.

• Attend a local ceremony or vigil to honor POWs and MIAs.
• Display the POW/MIA flag at your home, business, or community center.
• Learn about the history of POW/MIA issues and the efforts to account for missing service members.
• Support organizations that assist families of the missing, such as the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency or the American Legion.
• Share stories of POWs and MIAs on social media using the hashtag #POWMIARecognitionDay.

How to Celebrate National POW/MIA Recognition Day

Observing this day can be a personal or community act of remembrance. Many people choose to fly the POW/MIA flag at half-staff or attend a ceremony at a local veterans memorial. The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency often hosts family member updates and public events where families can receive updates on their loved ones' cases and connect with others who share their experience.

Another meaningful way to observe is to educate yourself and others about the nearly 81,000 Americans still missing from past conflicts. Reading about the history of the POW/MIA flag, the work of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, or the stories of individual service members can deepen your understanding of the sacrifice these heroes made. You can also participate in a moment of silence at noon or join a virtual remembrance event.

• Participate in a moment of silence at noon to honor those who are missing or were held captive.
• Visit a local veterans memorial or museum to pay your respects.
• Write a letter of thanks to a former POW or to a family member of a missing service member.
• Watch a documentary or read a book about the experience of POWs or the search for MIAs.
• Donate to a nonprofit that supports POW/MIA families or recovery efforts.

National POW/MIA Recognition Day Dates