09/18/2026
Today is National POW/MIA Recognition Day. National POW/MIA Recognition Day is observed on the third Friday in September. It honors those who were prisoners of war (POWs) and those who are still missing in action (MIA). It is most associated with those who were POWs during the Vietnam War. It is to honor those held in captivity and those still missing in action. It is a day to reflect on how much our freedom today is partly due to the actions of those still missing.
The DPAA (Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency works to account for and repatriate US service members who are or were Prisoners of War (POW) or Missing in Action (MIA) from past conflicts. The DPAA uses a combination of historical research, recovery operations and forensic science to identify remains and bring them home.
The VFW National Commander and VFW Auxiliary National President have chosen helping the DPAA as their joint Special Project this year. If you would like to make a donation for this project, contact your local VFW or VFW Auxiliary.
May we never forget or lose appreciation for all our countrymen & women who have served or are still serving.