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 honoured on National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day. As a result, they've also suffered separation from family, and displayed incredible patience and faith during their captivity.

The largest number of US Forces were captured by Japanese troops in the Bataan Peninsula in the Philippines on this day in 1942.. After being pushed into extreme weather and prolonged wars, the captured troops were forced to march 65 miles to the prison camp. Thousands of people died as a result of medical care, food, or water. Many who survived the difficult journey were still suffering from the abuse. Many people who survived were forced to live in the compounds, deep in the undiscovered jungle, the hardships, brutality, and suffering lasted more than two years for those who could survive.

More than 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 the ones listed above. These heroes deserving of a day of esteem.

#formerpowrecognitionday is a form of recognition day that is observable on #formerpowrecognitionday

The day is commemorated with ceremonies and activities by Government officials, veterans, civic, and private organizations
On this day, some states have requested that businesses and government facilities fly the POW/MIA flag
Honor former POWs by assisting with the planning of activities
Ensure your company flies the POW/MIA flag. Ensure your company is flying the POW/MIA flag
Volunteer to support a veteran charity
Learn more by visiting the American Legion to learn more
To post on social media, use #FormerPOWRecognitionDay

Pow recognition day is in the United States' national former pow recognition day's history

On April 9th each year, a campaign led by former POWs began in 1984 and began a day honoring former Prisoners of War. Congress passed legislation setting April 9th in 1988 to commemorate the date the tragic number of captives were taken prisoner on Bataan. On April 1, 1988, President Ronald Reagan declared National Former Prisoners of War Recognition Day, which was followed by Presidential Proclamation 5788. 5788. He held the observance on April 9, 1988. The observance of the observance continues today, through legislation and Presidential Proclamations.