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National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day falls on Friday, April 9, 2027. That is 164 days away.

Former prisoners of war are service members who were captured and held by an enemy during armed conflict. This day recognizes them, both those still living and those who have died, along with the families who waited for news and for their return.

Captivity could last days or years. Many prisoners faced hunger, isolation, harsh treatment and long stretches with no word from home. Some kept each other going with quiet routines, shared memories and small acts of loyalty. Coming home did not always end the hardship, and many carried the experience with them for the rest of their lives.

The day is usually marked plainly. Veterans organizations and some communities hold ceremonies, read names or invite former prisoners to speak. A black flag bearing a silhouette is often flown. It is the POW/MIA flag, which also remembers those still missing.

For many people the most meaningful part is listening. Former prisoners and their families have recorded oral histories, written memoirs and given interviews, and many of these are kept in libraries and archives.

The families matter here too. Spouses, parents and children often spent long periods not knowing whether someone they loved was alive.

Ways to celebrate

• Display the POW/MIA flag at home or work.
• Attend a local ceremony held by a veterans organization.
• Write a note of thanks to a former prisoner of war or their family.
• Listen to or read an oral history from a former prisoner of war.
• Visit a local veterans memorial and spend a quiet moment there.

Dates

All national days on April 9

Also on April 9

• National Gin and Tonic Day
• National Chinese Almond Cookie Day
• National Unicorn Day
• National Name Yourself Day
• Appomattox Day
• National Cherish an Antique Day
• National Winston Churchill Day

Categories: Commemorative days