National POW/MIA Recognition Day 2026 – 24-Hour Remembrance Vigil & Community Tribute

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.

24-Hour POW/MIA Remembrance 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.

Community Tribute & Activities

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!

Register for the 24-Hour Remembrance Vigil

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.

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

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