Military & Veterans Life

Scott’s View: Recognizing National POW/MIA Recognition Day: Leave No One Behind

Scott

Today, September 20, is National POW/MIA Recognition Day. This day honors those who were prisoners of war and those who are still missing in action. 

This day of recognition was established in 1979 through a proclamation signed by President Jimmy Carter. Since then, each subsequent president has issued an annual proclamation commemorating the third Friday in September in honor of these heroic Americans. 

Vietnam Veterans know the importance of this day all too well. According to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, of the 2,646 originally missing during the Vietnam War, 1,582 remain missing. The U.S. Department of Defense spends over $110 million per year in the effort, and with the cooperation of the Vietnamese government, the number unaccounted for has gradually decreased.

I have returned to Vietnam twice since my service there in 1967-68. On my first trip to Vietnam with fellow Vietnam Veterans in 1982 on a non-diplomatic mission, we discussed the issue of American MIA’s with high level Vietnamese officials. We asked for their cooperation to find, identify and bring home the remains of our 2,646 American MIA servicemembers. Surely they could understand how important it was to the families of the fallen. They understood, but said they had hundreds of thousands of MIA’s in their country and would be spending their limited resources on recovering them first. Nevertheless, in a gesture of good faith, they turned over to our delegation some of the first remains of MIAs from Vietnam, bringing a sense of closure to the families of those fallen heroes. 

As a country, we must never forget those who have served, and do everything in our power to ensure no one is left behind. While they may be gone now, or missing, they will never be forgotten.

Blog Tags:

Scott's View

From Our Member Community

Memorial Day salute

Military & Veterans News

A Comprehensive Guide to the GI Bill for the Military Community

For anyone who has served or is currently serving in the U.S. military, the GI Bill is a truly life-changing benefit. It offers incredible financial support for education and career growth, from college degrees to specialized training. This program can open up a world of new possibilities. This article will explain what the GI Bill is, how it works, and important recent changes that could boost your educational journey even further.
couple in front of laptop

Discounts & Benefits

WeSalute Review: Power Up and Save with Military Discounts on Tech & Electronics

As our lives become increasingly digital, having reliable and cutting-edge technology is more important than ever. From staying connected with loved ones to optimizing your home office, or simply enjoying the latest entertainment, the right tech can make a significant difference. Here at WeSalute, building on our 25+ years of experience, we're dedicated to helping active duty military, veterans, and their families access valuable savings. This WeSalute Review buyer's guide is designed to highlight some incredible tech benefits available to you, helping you power up your digital life while keeping more money in your pocket!

Join Our Community.
 

Yes, Get Me Started