National POW/MIA Recognition Day 2026, Community Tribute & 24-Hour Remembrance Vigil
The National POW/MIA Memorial & Museum invites the community to join us for National POW/MIA Recognition Day 2026, a powerful two-day event dedicated to honoring America's prisoners of war and those who remain missing in action.
From Friday, September 18 through Saturday, September 19, 2026, participants from across the region will come together in Jacksonville, Florida, to ensure that the sacrifices of our nation's heroes are never forgotten.
Event Admission: FREE
Community Activities: FREE
Recognition Ceremony: FREE
Dreamland Squadron Flyover: FREE
24-Hour Vigil Participation: Registration Required
Active Duty Military: Complimentary Vigil Registration
Community Tribute & Activities
FREE
On Saturday, September 19, from 11:00 AM to 4:30 PM, the museum grounds will host a day of remembrance, education, and community engagement featuring:
- Recognition Day Ceremony honoring POWs, MIAs, and their families
- Dreamland Squadron Flyover paying tribute to America's missing and fallen heroes
- American Legion Riders 7 Bridges Ride arriving at the event in support of the mission to remember
- Live Entertainment throughout the day
- Food Trucks, Refreshments, and Family Activities
- Opportunities to connect with veterans, service organizations, and community partners
Museum Open Both Days
Guests are encouraged to explore the National POW/MIA Memorial & Museum throughout the weekend. Special exhibits will be open, including a featured focus on the Korean War, offering visitors a chance to learn more about the experiences, sacrifices, and legacy of those who served. This is a family-friendly event with activities for children; all are welcome!
There is no charge for the events on Saturday
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24-Hour POW/MIA Remembrance Vigil
PAID EVENT
(Free for Active Duty Military)
RESERVE YOUR SPOT IN THE 24 HOUR VIGIL
The centerpiece of the event is a continuous 24-hour POW/MIA Vigil, beginning Friday and continuing through Saturday. Individuals, families, veteran organizations, youth groups, civic organizations, businesses, and active-duty units are invited to reserve a time slot and participate in the ceremonial carrying of the POW/MIA flag as a visible symbol of remembrance, respect, and commitment to those who served and never returned home.
Organizations, groups, and individuals are encouraged to participate in the 24-hour vigil.
Individual Registration: $50
Includes commemorative event T-shirt
Individual Registration: $25
No commemorative event T-shirt
Children under 13: $5
Organization / Group Registration: $150
Reserve a dedicated time slot for your group to take part in this meaningful tribute.
RESERVE YOUR SPOT IN THE 24 HOUR VIGIL
Participation is welcomed from:
- Veteran Organizations
- Active Duty Military Units
- ROTC and JROTC Programs
- Scout Troops
- Young Marines and Sea Cadets
- Businesses and Community Organizations
- Families and Individual Supporters
The Vigil and all events are free for our military!
Join Us
National POW/MIA Recognition Day serves as a reminder that the commitment to those who served does not end when they come home—and does not end when they do not. Together, we will stand watch, carry the POW/MIA flag, share their stories, and reaffirm our promise that they will never be forgotten.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Partner with us for this event to Honor America's POWs AND MIAs. Email us for more information: admin@powmiamemorial.org
You Are Not Forgotten.
September 18–19, 2026
National POW/MIA Memorial & Museum – Jacksonville, Florida
