National Former Prisoner Of War Recognition Day

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

In 1942, the largest number of US Forces were captured by Japanese troops in the Bataan Peninsula in the Philippines on this day. The captured troops were forced to march 65 miles to the prison camp after being exposed to 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 hardships, brutality, and suffering lasted more than two years in the compounds, deep in the undiscovered jungle, deep in the unknown jungle.

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

How to celebrate #formerpowrecognitionday

The day is marked with ceremonies and activities by Government officials, veterans, civic, and private organizations
On this day, several states have requested that businesses and government facilities fly the POW/MIA flag
Former POWs are commemorated by helping with planning activities
Ensure that your company flies the POW/MIA flag
Volunteer to support a veteran group
Learn more by visiting the American Legion. Learn more by visiting 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

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