National Former Prisoner Of War Recognition Day

On April 9th, National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day honors the brave men and women who have endured brutal treatment at the hands of their captors. They've also suffered separation from family and displayed incredible patience and faith during their captivity, as a result..

The largest number of US Forces were captured by Japanese troops in the Bataan Peninsula in the Philippines on this day in 1942. The captured troops were forced to march 65 miles to the prison camp after being pushed through extreme weather and prolonged wars. Thousands of people died without medical care, food, or water. For those who survived the difficult journey, the mistreatment continued. For those who could survive, the complexities, brutality, and suffering lasted more than two years in the compounds, deep inside the uncharted jungle, poverty, brutality, and suffering.

Over half a million service members have been captured since the Revolutionary War. This number does not represent those who were lost or never recovered. This number does not represent those who were missing or never recovered. However, each POW suffers conditions similar to those listed above. These heroes are deserving of a day of esteem.

How to celebrate #formerpowrecognitionday. www.formerpowrecognitiondaycom

The day is marked with ceremonies and events, including government officials, veterans, civic, and private organizations
On this day, several states require businesses and government facilities to fly the POW/MIA flag
Former POWs can be honored by assisting in arranging activities
Ensure that your company flies the POW/MIA flag
Volunteer to support a veterans group
Visit the American Legion to learn more about the American Legion
To post on social media, use the hashtag #FormerPOWRecognitionDay

The national former pow recognition day is coming back to the United States for the first time in history

Every year, a campaign led by former POWs began seeking a day honoring former Prisoners of War on April 9th. Congress passed legislation on April 9th to commemorate the date the tragic number of captives were taken prisoner on Bataan in 1988.. Through Presidential Proclamation 5788, President Ronald Reagan declared National Former Prisoners of War Recognition Day on April 1, 1988. He planned the observance for April 9, 1988. Since then, the observance of the observance continues, through legislation and Presidential Proclamations.