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National POW/MIA Recognition Day

Honor those who have served and sacrificed for our country this National POW/MIA Recognition Day - never forget their bravery!

Friday

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEThird Friday in September

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCareers

SUBCATEGORYMilitary

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

It's time to honor and recognize the brave service members who were captured or remain missing in action on National POW/MIA Recognition Day, which is celebrated on the third Friday of September each year. This important day of remembrance first began in 1979, when President Jimmy Carter declared it an official day of recognition for those individuals who have sacrificed so much for our country. On this special day, we take the time to salute all those men and women who have served our nation with honor and courage.

TIMELINE

National POW/MIA Recognition Day Timeline

POW/MIA Recognition Day Established

President Jimmy Carter proclaimed a national day of remembrance for POWs and MIAs, establishing the third Friday of September as the official day.

First Official Observance

In 1980, the first official National POW/MIA Recognition Day observance was held, with activities centered at the Pentagon and other military installations.

POW/MIA Flag Created

The National League of Families POW/MIA Flag, symbolizing the nation's remembrance and continued concern for those missing or captured, was officially recognized by Congress.

Observance Enlarged

The observance was expanded to involve commemorative ceremonies and activities throughout the country, including U.S. military installations all over the world.

Expanded Search Efforts

The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) was established to consolidate all POW and MIA search efforts, reemphasizing the country's commitment to accounting for all missing servicemen and women.

POW/MIA Flag Display Rule

Congress ordered the POW/MIA flag to be displayed on all federal properties on National POW/MIA Recognition Day, ensuring the nation remembers this day and the sacrifices made.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National POW/MIA Recognition Day

Attend a memorial service

Check with your local government to see if there are any memorial services in your area to honor those who have been held as prisoners of war and/or remain missing in action.

FLY

Fly the POW/MIA Flag

Flying the POW/MIA flag is a great way to recognize and show support for those who serve or have served in the military. You can purchase a POW/MIA flag online or at your local military surplus store.

ORGANIZE

Organize a fundraising event

Organizing a fundraising event is an excellent way to show your support for current soldiers and those who have served in the past. Use the funds you raise to help veterans and their families.

WRITE

Write letters to veterans

Write letters of gratitude to veterans thanking them for their service and sacrifice. You can also write letters to families of POWs/MIAs expressing your sympathies and appreciation.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a veteran's organization

Volunteer at a veteran's organization, such as the American Legion or the Veterans of Foreign Wars, to help recognize and honor those who have served. You could help organize events, collect donations, or assist with office work.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National POW/MIA Recognition Day is Important

It shows respect & gratitude

Not only does National POW/MIA recognition Day allow us to honor the past, but it also gives us an opportunity to show appreciation for those currently serving or have served in the armed forces. We reflect upon the great debt we owe them for protecting our rights and freedoms, and demonstrate how much we value their sacrifice.

It honors the sacrifice of veterans

National POW/MIA Recognition Day is an important day to recognize and honor the brave men and women who served our country with courage and dignity, many of whom never made it home. It is a somber reminder of the sacrifices these individuals made for our freedom.

It raises awareness

National POW/MIA Recognition Day serves as an opportunity to raise public awareness of the still unresolved issues regarding those service members listed as missing in action or prisoners of war. It reminds us that we can never stop fighting for answers and justice for those who gave everything in service to our nation.