National Former Prisoner Of War Recognition Day 2024 (US): Annually observed on April 9, National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day honors and pays tribute to the valiant individuals who served as captives of war (POW) and those who remain missing in action (MIA). It is noteworthy that captives of war are entitled to be treated with dignity and respect.
Yes, notwithstanding the fact that they are prisoners of war, they will be granted all fundamental liberties. On this date in 1942, Japanese forces detained American veterans who were subjected to severe mistreatment. Although some individuals managed to survive, an incalculable number perished en route to the prison camps. More should be learned about them!
National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day: An Historical Account
Humans have engaged in this heinous act of warfare ever since they discovered how to employ stones and twigs as weapons. Individuals who are taken prisoner by the opposing faction throughout the conflict and designated as Prisoners of War (POW) frequently endure abhorrent mistreatment. The purpose of National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day is to pay homage to those valiant patriots who were forced to endure.
The observance of National Former Prisoners of War Recognition Day coincides with the Bataan Death March anniversary. The United States Forces on the Bataan Peninsula acquiesced to the Imperial Japanese Army on April 9, 1942. A cargo train carrying all survivors was used to transport them to Camp O’Donnell. Over 500 Americans perished as a result of the physical abuse and cruelty inflicted upon POWs throughout this march. The term for this is the Bataan Death March. Subsequently, this Japanese Army action was classified as a Japanese War Crime.
Former prisoners of war spearheaded an initiative in 1984 to designate April 9, the occasion of the Bataan Death March, as National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day. President Ronald Reagan proclaimed April 9, 1988, a national holiday in honor of valiant veterans on April 1, 1988. The holiday was proclaimed by Reagan via Presidential Proclamation 5788, and the legislation was approved by Congress. Subsequently, government officials, veterans, and civic and private organizations throughout the nation partake in ceremonies and events on this day each year. Additionally, on National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, they raise the POW/MIA flag.
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FAQs presented on National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day
Are war captives still in existence?
Presently, 83,204 U.S. citizens are unaccounted for; of these, 73,547 are veterans of World War II.
Do war captives serve as slaves?
Throughout the centuries past, POWs were regarded as slaves and had no rights. However, POWs are now granted rights and regarded with respect.
Why are war captives captured?
The detention of prisoners of war serves a multitude of valid and invalid objectives, including the purpose of separating them from the enemy combatants.
National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day: A Guide to Observance
Establish a community engagement
In order to educate and commemorate the local community about the valor, tenacity, and sacrifices of former POWs, organize a community event.
Exhibit the POW flag
Fly the POW/MIA flag in solidarity with your local community and observe this tradition with reverence by abiding by all regulations.
Invite an ex-POW.
You can honor former POWs, invite them to an event, and learn the most incredible tales of their lives if you know any of them.
NATIONAL FORMER PRISONER OF WAR RECOGNITION DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | April 9 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | April 9 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | April 9 | Thursday |
| 2027 | April 9 | Friday |
| 2028 | April 9 | Sunday |
