WHEREAS, throughout American history, generations of military servicemen and women have embodied patriotism by sacrificing their own personal safety and wellbeing to protect our country, our people, our freedom, and the values we hold dear; and
WHEREAS, too many of these brave patriots were captured during the conflict and imprisoned by an enemy, or went missing in action, and have never returned home; and
WHEREAS, despite enduring the uncertainty surrounding the fate of their loved ones, the families and friends of those who remain missing continue to honor their memory and hold onto hope; and
WHEREAS, it is our Nation’s duty to be vigilant and remain mindful of the sacrifices made by American POWs and MIA personnel, and to remember the family members they have left behind who have endured the pain of uncertainty and loss; and
WHEREAS, honoring the sacrifice of our military personnel includes the solemn duty to account for those still missing from past conflicts; and the State of Alaska joins the Nation in its commitment to pursue every effort to bring them home and calls upon national leaders to uphold this enduring responsibility; and
WHEREAS, the men and women of our Armed Forces face unimaginable conditions and bear the painful price of war. We are forever indebted to and eternally grateful for these brave individuals who’s selfless sacrifices are a lasting testament to patriotism and love of country.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim September 18, 2026 as:
Prisoners of War and Missing in Action Recognition Day
in Alaska and encourage all Alaskans to honor the bravery of those who were prisoners of war, those still missing in action, and their loved ones, and I direct all State agencies in possession of a POW/MIA flag to proudly fly the POW/MIA flag on September 18, 2026.
Dated: September 18, 2026
