WHITEHALL TWP., Pa. — A local organization will observe the national day to remember prisoners of war and those missing in action, more than 30 years since America's last war.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars Egypt Post 7293 will hold a National POW/MIA Recognition Day ceremony at 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19 at 6 p.m. at the post home, 5209 Springmill Road.
National Recognition Day is an annual event that is observed on the third Friday of September by presidential proclamation.
President Jimmy Carter issued the initial such proclamation in 1979, with each succeeding commander-in-chief following suit.
The day honors American prisoners of war and service members who remain missing in action, along with their families, by emphasizing the ongoing commitment to find them and bring them home.
Also on that day, individuals and businesses are encouraged to display the POW/MIA flag and to reflect on the sacrifices made by these service members.
The remembrance event at the VFW Egypt will feature a table set with specific symbolic items to remember POWs and MIA.
Key elements include a small, empty chair representing the missing individual, a white tablecloth for purity of intention and a red rose in a vase for the loved ones awaiting their return.
Also, a single yellow candle for hope and remembrance, an inverted wine glass and a slice of lemon and salt representing their bitter fate and the families’ tears, respectively.
The 30-minute event also will consist of an honor guard, Pledge of Allegiance, benediction and reciting of a poem honoring the POW/MIAs.
