BRUNSWICK, ME – Today U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in observance of National POW/MIA Recognition Day. This day recognizes and shows solidarity with America’s servicemembers who have been Prisoners of War, those still Missing in Action, and their families:

“We join today to honor the brave members of our Armed Forces who were held as Prisoners of War and those who remain Missing in Action. I am humbled to join families in Maine and across the Nation to recognize their courage, patriotism, and immeasurable sacrifices. This day is a solemn reminder of these sacrifices, but it is also a call to action. In recognizing the sacrifices made by our family and community members who are or have been POW/MIA, we must recommit ourselves to working to bring them home and to caring for those among us they have left behind.

 

“The POW/MIA flag is emblazoned with the phrase, ‘You Are Not Forgotten.’ This serves as a stark reminder to us all that we must bear witness to the sacrifice of those still unaccounted for by joining together in our unyielding efforts to ensure that no one is left behind. This is also a reminder of our commitment and obligation to those who have returned and to ensure that they receive the support and compassionate care they deserve.

 

“This national day of recognition is a day we gather as a country to remember, but the families of POW/MIA must quietly endure the pain of a missing loved one every day. We must commit to stand by these families as a community, state, and Nation, to pay tribute to the sacrifices of those who are or have been POW/MIA. We vow to continue our efforts not only to bring them home, but also to care for their families and their comrades who have returned.

 

“On this day, I am honored to express my deepest gratitude to the brave members of our community who are or have been POW/MIA. To the families who have quietly borne the pain of a missing loved one, know that we will continue to stand with you and honor their selflessness to ensure the safety of our nation.”