Michigan Veterans Groups Set To Host Statewide POW/MIA Recognition Events on September 19

Across Michigan, groups will gather on September 19 to honor the 81,000 U.S. troops still missing from past conflicts. These solemn events bring communities together, showing support for the families who wait for news of their loved ones.

At Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154 plans a six-hour vigil starting at 3 p.m. "Please let the world know that we haven't forgotten and never will," said Gary Purcell, chapter president, according to The Macomb Daily.

The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency tracks these numbers: 72,000 missing from World War II, 7,400 from Korea, and over 1,500 from Vietnam. Michigan accounts for 13,600 of these cases.

Starting at 6 p.m., Westland's VFW Post 9885 will conduct an hour-long tribute. "It's to remember the people who died and were missing in action," said Mike Rokita, VFW Post commander, per the Detroit Free Press.

Keith Edwards, who runs the Clinton Township vigil, shared per The Macomb Daily: "The vigil is an opportunity to educate the community on the issue as well as to honor and remember the missing . . . There is an empty chair at almost 81,000 dinner tables."

Scientists keep making breakthroughs in identification methods. DNA tests now link tiny bone pieces found in Vietnam to family members back home. Yet this year's budget cuts might slow this vital work.

The day's events spread across the state. At 2:30 p.m., Michigan Veteran Home at Chesterfield Township starts their tribute. Shelby Township's VFW Post 4659 follows at 4 p.m. with a service and meal. In Novi, the Prisoner of War Committee leads their ceremony at Oakland Hills Memorial Gardens at 6 p.m.

The American Legion wants answers: bring back living prisoners, return remains, or give clear proof why neither option works.

This national day of recognition started in 1979 when families pushed hard for answers about their missing Vietnam War soldiers. That fall, the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. held the first nationwide ceremony.