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Never Forgotten: Team Scott honors America's POW/MIA

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Brian Butkus
  • 375th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Scott AFB, Il. --  Scott Air Force Base hosted its 15th Annual POW/MIA Recognition Day Friday to honor those who were taken prisoners of war and those still missing in action. 

In 1997, President Bill Clinton proclaimed that the purpose of POW/MIA Day was to "never forget those who have borne the indignities and sufferings of captivity in service to our country." 

The proclamation also recognized "with special sympathy and concern, the courageous families who maintain their steadfast vigil and perseverance in their search for answers and for the peace that comes only with certainty" in knowing the fate of their loved ones who are still listed as missing in action. 

While a relatively new day of national recognition, POW/MIA Day traces its roots to 1971 and the design of the nationally known POW/MIA flag. That flag, featuring a black and white silhouette of a servicemember whose head is bowed, was designed by Mrs. Michael Hoff whose husband was listed as missing in action in Southeast Asia.
Scott's own POW/MIA Day traces its roots to 1989. 

The day kicked-off with a recognition ceremony on the Parade Field featuring an invocation by Army Korean War Veteran and Chaplain Jackie Davison. 

"Today we honor heroes of the past, present and future," said Chaplin Davison. "We should strive to emulate these individuals because they help keep our freedom intact." 

Other event's that took place included remarks from Col Al Hunt, 375th Airlift Wing commander, guest speaker Russell Rieke, a melody of service songs by the Band of Mid-America, a 21-gun salute by the Polish American War Veterans and a rendition of Taps by Cody Anderson and Clayton Dodds. 

After the ceremony concluded, guests were led to the Scott POW/MIA Memorial for a wreath laying ceremony to honor America's servicemembers who were POWs and those still missing in action. 

The day culminated with a barbeque offering Scott members and military veterans, many of whom were POWs in wars past, the opportunity to come together. 

POW/MIA Day is a day to honor and reflect upon what we have and those who fought to attain it. Colonel Hunt's closing remarks said it best. "You are not forgotten."