National Former POW Recognition Day

April 9th is designated by Congress as the Presidentially proclaimed observance of National Former POW Recognition Day. On this day we honor the American servicemen and women who experienced unimaginable trials and profound cruelty as prisoners of war. On April 9, 1942 United States forces surrendered on the Bataan Peninsula, beginning the Bataan Death March. This event was the forcible transfer, (later became a war crime), by the Imperial Japanese Army of 60,000–80,000 Filipino and American prisoners of war over sixty miles on foot, where they endured beatings, torture, and little food and water. Thousands of these POW’s died. Former prisoners of war have withstood days, months, and sometimes years of imprisonment, missing irreplaceable milestones and simple moments at home. But they were never forgotten; they were remembered every day by loved ones. As we reflect on the sacrifices that have made progress throughout our world possible, we are reminded of our solemn duty to serve our former prisoners of war, their families, and all our veterans as well as they served us.