Friday is National Prisoner of War/Missing In Action Recognition Day throughout the United States. The president of the United States sets the third Friday of September aside each year under proclamation.

It is a day when we remember those who served, gave their lives and especially the 1,587 Americans still missing and unaccounted for during the Vietnam War. On this day our POW/MIAs should be honored and recognized, with the focus on the need for a full accounting, alive or dead. A strong, united, responsible support by the American people is crucial to achieving concrete answers to loved ones families, friends and the American people.

Chapter 459, Vietnam Veterans of America encourages you and your community to fly the American & POW/MIA flags on this day and to remember those who still have not returned “home.” Other than “Old Glory” the POW/MIA flag is the only flag to fly over the White House, having been displayed in the place of honor on POW/MIA Day since 1982.

On Aug. 10, 1990, Congress passed a law which recognized the POW flag and designated it “As the symbol of our nations concern and commitment to resolving as fully as possible the fates of Americans still prisoner, missing and unaccounted for in Southeast Asia, thus ending the uncertainty for their families and the Nation.” We ask you to please remember — in your own way those who have served and those who are still unaccounted for not just on this day … but everyday.

Our chapter thanks you for allowing the opportunity to explain the meaning of this very special day for the Vietnam Veteran as well as America itself.

Chapter 459 Vietnam Veterans of America will be selling the POW/MIA poppy at the Walmart store in Fredonia.

Danny S. McGill is secretary of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chautauqua County Chapter 459.