BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
From the hallowed fields of the Revolutionary War to the harrowing jungles of Vietnam, the saga of our brave service members includes the dark chapter of captivity in enemy hands. On this National Prisoner of War/Missing in Action (POW/MIA) Recognition Day, we gather to honor the sacrifices of our fearless American Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, and Coast Guardsmen, who, while safeguarding our freedoms overseas, were captured and those whose fate remains unknown. Their courage deserves not just a salute but an unwavering vow to ensure full accountability for the over 80,000 heroes still unaccounted for from previous conflicts.
Every American POW has not only answered the call to duty but fought for the futures of their families and fellow citizens. Ensnared by foes, they withstood unimaginable suffering, clinging to hope through sheer resilience and valor. Their loved ones, in turn, navigated a relentless wilderness of anxiety and sorrow, perpetually yearning for their safe return. For the families still in limbo, the anguish remains a visceral reality.
During my initial term, I advocated for the National POW/MIA Flag Act, ensuring that the POW/MIA flag ascends proudly alongside the American flag. This solemn banner, embodying the sacrifices made in the name of our liberty, stands as an enduring testament to our collective commitment to never leave anyone behind.
As your Commander in Chief, I am resolute in my mission to seek justice for those taken and those who are still missing. My first term marked significant progress, as we achieved the repatriation of remains believed to belong to at least 250 individuals who perished in the Korean War. This March, we proudly recognized our 100th identified service member, bringing closure to countless families after decades of uncertainty. Our pursuit will persist until each American is brought home.
On this day, the First Lady and I join in paying tribute to America’s POW/MIAs and their families. The debt we owe these heroes for their unimaginable sacrifices in defense of our sovereignty cannot be quantified and must never fade from our collective memory.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 19, 2025, as National POW/MIA Recognition Day. I extend my heartfelt salute to all American POWs who, in the face of great peril and uncertainty, upheld their duty to this great nation. May this day serve as a beacon, reminding us to strengthen our resolve to account for those still missing, and to provide their families with the answers they so desperately seek. I urge Federal, State, tribal, and local government officials, along with private organizations, to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this nineteenth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fiftieth.
DONALD J. TRUMP
