National Former Prisoner Of War Recognition Day

National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day is observed annually on April 9th in the United States to honor the courage, resilience, and sacrifices of American service members who endured captivity as prisoners of war (POWs). This day also pays tribute to their families, who faced uncertainty and hardship while awaiting their loved ones’ return. The date commemorates the infamous Bataan Death March of 1942 during World War II, a harrowing event where thousands of American and Filipino soldiers were captured and forced into brutal conditions.

Quick Facts

When is it? April 9
Tagged as: Observance, Military, History
What’s the hashtag? #FormerPOWRecognitionDay
When was it founded? 1988
Who founded it? U.S. Congress and President Ronald Reagan through Presidential Proclamation 5788

History

The observance was established to commemorate the surrender of U.S. forces on April 9, 1942, during World War II, which led to the Bataan Death March. Over 78,000 American and Filipino troops were captured by Japanese forces and subjected to a grueling 65-mile march under inhumane conditions. Thousands died during this ordeal. In 1988, after years of advocacy by former POWs, Congress passed legislation recognizing April 9th as National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day.

Timeline

1942: The Bataan Death March begins on April 9.
1984: Former POWs advocate for a day of recognition.
1988: Congress designates April 9 as National Former POW Recognition Day.
1988: President Reagan issues the first proclamation for observance.
2020: Presidential proclamations continue to honor the day annually.

Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	April 9	Wednesday
2026	April 9	Thursday
2027	April 9	Friday
2028	April 9	Sunday
2029	April 9	Monday
2030	April 9	Tuesday

Observed

National Former POW Recognition Day is marked by ceremonies, memorial services, flag presentations, and speeches honoring former POWs. Many government facilities and organizations fly the POW/MIA flag to signify remembrance.

Fun Facts About

Over half a million American service members have been captured as POWs throughout U.S. history.
The Bataan Death March remains one of the most infamous war crimes committed during World War II.
The POW/MIA flag features the phrase “You are not forgotten,” symbolizing ongoing efforts to honor those who endured captivity.

Quiz

What event does National Former POW Recognition Day commemorate?
When was the first official observance of this day?
What is written on the POW/MIA flag?

(Answers:)

The Bataan Death March
April 9, 1988
“You are not forgotten”

FAQs

Q: Why is April 9 significant for this observance?
A: It marks the surrender of U.S. forces in Bataan in 1942 and the beginning of the Bataan Death March.

Q: How can I observe this day?
A: Attend ceremonies, fly the POW/MIA flag, or learn about POW history through museums or online resources.

Q: Is this day a public holiday?
A: No, it is an observance but not a federal holiday.

Importance

National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day is vital for honoring those who sacrificed their freedom for their country. It serves as a reminder of their resilience and ensures that their suffering and sacrifices are never forgotten.