National Former Pow Recognition Day

A group of military veterans standing together, wearing their uniforms, against a backdrop of the American flag.. — National former pow recognition day illustration

Welcome to WhatNationalDayIsIt.com, where we dive into the wacky and wonderful world of national holidays! Today, we're shining a light on National Former POW Recognition Day. It's a day to honor the brave individuals who have served in the military and endured the hardships of being a prisoner of war. So, let's salute our heroes and learn more about this special day!

When is Former Pow Recognition Day?

It's national former pow recognition day on the 9th April.

A Brief History of National Former POW Recognition Day

Every year on April 9th, we observe National Former POW Recognition Day to acknowledge the sacrifice and resilience of our former prisoners of war. The history of this day stretches back to 1987 when President Ronald Reagan proclaimed it as a national observance. Since then, it's been a time for our nation to express gratitude and show support for those who have endured the harrowing experience of being held captive during times of conflict or war.

Former POWs and their families face unimaginable challenges. This day serves as a reminder to provide them with the respect they deserve and to ensure they are never forgotten.

Honoring POWs: How to Get Involved

On National Former POW Recognition Day, there are numerous ways you can participate in honoring these heroic individuals. You can:

Visit veterans' organizations or retirement homes to express your appreciation to former POWs in person.
Donate to charitable organizations that provide support and services to former POWs and their families.
Write letters to former POWs, sharing your gratitude and admiration for their strength and sacrifice.
Attend local events or ceremonies held in honor of our former POWs.

No matter how you choose to get involved, the most important thing is to show your support and let our former POWs know that we are grateful for their courage and resilience.

Did You Know?

Did you know that approximately 30,000 American servicemen and women were held as prisoners of war during World War II? Their stories of survival and endurance are truly inspiring and serve as a testament to the strength of the human spirit.

History behind the term 'Former Pow Recognition'

1907

Geneva Convention

In 1907, the International Conference of the Red Cross adopted the Geneva Convention which recognized the rights and protections for prisoners of war. This milestone marked the first international agreement that gave explicit guidelines for the treatment of prisoners of war of all nations during times of conflict.

1929

Geneva Convention Revision

In 1929, the Geneva Convention was revised to further strengthen the rights and protections of prisoners of war, including provisions for the humane treatment, access to medical care, and freedom from forced labor.

1945

End of World War II

At the end of World War II, millions of soldiers who had been held captive as prisoners of war were liberated. This marked a turning point in the recognition and acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by former prisoners of war and the need to honor and support them.

1987

National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day

In 1987, the United States Congress established National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, which is observed annually on April 9th. This day serves as a reminder to pay tribute to the bravery and resilience of former prisoners of war and to ensure their sacrifices are not forgotten.