POW/MIA Recognition Day observed in Highland County

The Highland County Veterans Honor Guard and the Sons of the American Revolution Highlanders Chapter held a wreath-laying ceremony Friday, Sept. 19 at the Highland County Veterans Memorial in honor of POW/MIA Recognition Day. 

According to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, “National POW/MIA Recognition Day was established in 1979 through a proclamation signed by President Jimmy Carter. Since then, each subsequent president has issued an annual proclamation commemorating the third Friday in September as National POW/MIA Recognition Day. 

“A national-level ceremony is held on every National POW/MIA Recognition Day. Traditionally held at the Pentagon, it features members from each branch of military service and participation from high-ranking officials. 

“In addition to the national-level ceremony, observances of National POW/MIA Recognition Day are held across the country on military installations, ships at sea, state capitols, schools and veterans' facilities. 

“No matter where they are held, these National POW/MIA Recognition Day ceremonies share the common purpose of honoring those who were held captive and returned, as well as those who remain missing."