Team Whiteman runs to remember - POW/MIA

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Cody H. Ramirez
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  Members of active duty, Guard and Reserve units here came together Sept. 15 and 16 to support those military members who have been prisoners of war, or determined missing in action.

The more than 400 participating members had one goal - ensure the POW/MIA flag and torch continued moving for 24 hours.

National POW/MIA Recognition Day is a time when Americans can pause and give recognition for the bravery, sacrifices made and services rendered by POW/MIAs. It is one of six days throughout the year Congress has mandated the flying of the National League of Families' POW/MIA flag over federal facilities, cemeteries, post offices and military installations.

"The significance of the run is to show families that we have not forgotten and to share our respects with those who have went missing in honor of our country," said Staff Sgt. Cass Vaughn, event coordinator.

Many American heroes are POWs, while several more are still MIA. According to the Defense POW/MIA office, more than 83,000 Americans are missing from World War II, Korean War, Cold War, Vietnam Conflict, Gulf War and Afghanistan.

"The POW/MIA run struck me as something that really has meaning," he added. "There are many families who have lost loved ones and don't know what happened to them, so it is important we remind them that the ones they lost aren't forgotten, and that their service is always remembered."