JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A moving memorial service was held Friday for National Prisoners of War and Americans Missing in Action (POW/MIA) Recognition Day to honor and remember prisoners of war and those who went to war and are still missing.
The commemoration ceremony was held at the Cecil Commerce Center, kicking off a weekend of events. This special outdoor presentation and display of the Vietnam Memorial Traveling Wall were set up by American Legion Post 250.
The memorial service was held at the Chapel of the High-Speed Pass Friday morning where veterans and their families paid their respects. They paid their respects by singing songs, respecting traditions, and recognizing the issues POW’s and their families live with every day.
Rev. Patrick Archuleta said the grief runs deep.
“These were heroes who suffered torture, isolation, serious injuries and many did not make the flight home because they died in captivity,” Archuleta said. “I can’t even comprehend the extent of the sufferings and the conditions the POWs and the conflicts of wars the past generations experienced.”
Retired U.S. Navy Master Chief Robert Mitchell described the significance of a table set up in the auditorium for one person in honor of POW and MIAs.
He said the table was set for one, symbolizing the fragility of one prisoner alone against his oppressors. The single red rose represented a family member who kept the faith but never saw their loved one return.
“The chair is empty. They are not here, remember,” Mitchell said.
Another service for POW and MIA will be held Saturday in the Chapel off 6112 POW-MIA Memorial Parkway. Roughly 100 American Legion Riders are taking part in a seven-bridge motorcycle ride, ending their ride at the POW/MIA memorial early Friday afternoon.
National POW/MIA Recognition Day was established via presidential proclamation by Jimmy Carter in 1979. Every president since has issued a similar proclamation commemorating the third Friday in September as National POW/MIA Recognition Day.