President Proclaims National POW/MIA Recognition Day

Lead: President Donald J. Trump proclaimed September 19, 2025, as National POW/MIA Recognition Day, honoring American service members who were captured or remain missing in action during past conflicts.

Nut Graf: The proclamation underscores the Nation’s commitment to account for over 80,000 service members still unreturned and to support their families’ quest for closure, while calling on federal, state, and local authorities to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

Key Details

  • Scope of Recognition: Acknowledges service members captured from the Revolutionary War through Vietnam, many of whom endured brutal conditions as prisoners or remain unaccounted for.
  • Current Status: More than 80,000 American POW/MIAs from past wars and conflicts continue to be missing.
  • Flag Act Reminder: Reaffirms the National POW/MIA Flag Act, which mandates flying the POW/MIA flag alongside the U.S. flag as a symbol of remembrance and commitment to “leave no one behind”.

Proclamation Highlights

  • Historical Context: Honors those who answered the call of duty, endured captivity, and whose families continue to live with uncertainty and hope.
  • Administration Actions: Notes repatriation efforts, including the return of at least 250 remains from North Korea and identification of the 100th service member remains in March 2025.
  • Call to Action: Directs all levels of government and private organizations to hold ceremonies and educational events to commemorate the sacrifices of POWs and MIAs.

Observances Across the Nation

  • Federal buildings and military installations will display the POW/MIA flag.
  • Ceremonies and memorial services will be held at national cemeteries, veterans’ organizations, and community centers.
  • Educational programs will highlight the ongoing mission of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency to recover and identify missing service members.

In Witness Whereof, the proclamation bears the President’s signature and marks the two hundred and fiftieth year of American independence.