LANSING, Ill. (September 14, 2023) – In remembrance of military prisoners of war and those “missing in action,” the Lansing Veterans Memorial Ceremonial Honor Guard will host its annual POW/MIA Vigil on Friday, September 15 at the Lansing Veterans Memorial.
Starting at 6 p.m., the 22nd iteration of the annual event will end at 11 p.m., and will be a time of symbolic waiting for service men and women who have not returned.
According to a press release from the Lansing Veterans Memorial Ceremonial Honor Guard, “During our nation’s conflicts, starting with the American Revolution, there have been over 633,568 military personnel taken prisoners of war or deemed missing in action (POW/MIA). Still till today the fate of many of those missing or taken prisoner is unknown. Their families still wait for word of their loved ones who served our country and did not return.”
President Biden, in a proclamation made on September 14, declared September 15, 2023, as National POW/MIA Recognition Day.
“Let all who read this know that America remains grateful to our heroes held in the worst imaginable conditions as prisoners of war,” said the president in the proclamation. “Additionally, I encourage my fellow citizens across the Nation to reflect on today and let us not forget those heroes who never returned home from the battlefields around the world or their families who are still waiting for answers. I call upon Federal, State, and local government officials and private organizations to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.”
Attendees are encouraged to bring their own seat to the vigil. Military items will be for sale at the event, according to the Honor Guard release.
“Join us, rain or shine, to pay tribute and remember those who never returned,” the release said.
The Lansing Veterans Memorial is located at the southeast corner of Glenwood-Lansing Road and Burnham Avenue.
Related
- POW/MIA vigil at Lansing Veterans Memorial part of National Recognition Day (September 20, 2021)
