American Legion Post 19 honors POW/MIA comrades

On the third Friday of every September, many Americans across the country pause to remember the sacrifice and service of our prisoners of war (POW), as well as those missing in action (MIA).

World War II remains the war with the most service members reported imprisoned, that number stands at over 130,000.

There are also thousands of service members who never made it home from Korea and Vietnam.

Friday, the local American Legion Post 19 remembered those comrades.

The legion is a place where those who served in the Armed Forces find peace, all understanding the bitter-sweetness of the sacrifices made to defend our nation.

While some veterans enjoy the daily pleasures of returning to civilian life, they’ll never forget those who were prisoners of war and missing in action.

Robert Carey volunteers three days a week at the American Legion Post 19 in Yuma and said, ” Millions of Americans went to WWII and Korea and thousands didn’t come back. Nobody knows where they are. When I talk to family members or friends that have never been a part of the military, they just don’t understand. It’s different, they’ve never had any losses from that or had to be in the service and know what it’s like. It’s different. ”

Carey wishes more Americans would show support to the families that have lost their loved ones in war by attending POW/MIA memorial events.

Friday night, the Vietnam Veterans of America held a color guard ceremony in honor of POW/MIA recognition day at the Armed Forces Park in Yuma.