President Donald J. Trump issued a message on Apr. 9 recognizing National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day and honoring American service members who endured captivity during times of war.
The day is dedicated to acknowledging the sacrifices made by former prisoners of war (POWs) and their families, highlighting the nation's ongoing commitment to bringing home missing service members from every conflict.
"This National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, we honor every American service member who returned home after enduring the horrors of captivity by enemy forces during times of war. My Administration will always uphold the promise to leave no warrior behind and to bring home the missing souls from every war or conflict," Trump said in his statement.
Trump emphasized the hardships faced by POWs, saying, "No one is more deserving of our Nation’s appreciation than the former prisoners of war (POWs) who put their lives on the line for freedom’s cause and survived brutality and violence beyond all comprehension for the sake of our posterity." He continued, "Their selflessness and strength deserve our everlasting respect, and as Commander in Chief, I will never stop fighting for these exceptional heroes and all of our incredible veterans."
The president also noted that this year marks 250 years since American independence. He referenced a law signed during his first term requiring federal sites to fly both the American flag and POW/MIA flag as a reminder "of those still missing in action and our duty to account for them and bring them home." Trump further recognized POW families: "As we pause today to celebrate the POWs who returned home, we also acknowledge their families who lived for months and years in a prison of uncertainty and fear while awaiting news of their loved ones. This unimaginable sacrifice deserves our utmost gratitude, admiration, and awe."
In closing his message, Trump said: "Our returned POWs represent the best of America. They understand what it means to serve a cause greater than self, and their names and stories should never be forgotten by a people forever in their debt. Today and every day, we honor their extraordinary sacrifices, courage, patriotism, and resilience."
