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POW/MIA Recognition Day September 26th

AUSTIN CEREMONY TO HONOR TEXAS’ MISSING AND PRISONERS OF WAR – Event is free and open to the public

A ceremony to honor and remember 105 Texans Missing In Action in Vietnam will be held at the Texas State Cemetery on Saturday, September 26, 2015 at 11:00 a.m.  The event is free and open to the public.

The ceremony is organized by Vietnam Veterans of America Capitol of Texas Chapter 915 as part of the national commemoration of the American Armed Forces and civilian personnel who have been held prisoner or are unaccounted for as a result of Vietnam service.

“The POW/MIA Ceremony memorializes those Texans still Missing In Action from the Vietnam War.  As we remember and honor those who are not with us on this day, we note that dying is not the worst that can happen to our brothers in arms; being forgotten is,” said John Miterko, event organizer.

The centerpiece of the ceremony that includes traditional military honors and a reading of the names of 105 military personnel and three civilians missing in Vietnam is a symbolic “Missing Man Table Ceremony” set with six places and inverted glasses as a reminder that those lost are not forgotten.  Each element on the table, including the colors of items used, is symbolic.

The Texas State Cemetery is located at 909 Navasota Street in Austin. The ceremony will be held near the Medal of Honor obelisk.

National POW/MIA Recognition Day ceremonies are held throughout the nation and around the world on military installations, ships at sea, state capitols, and at schools, churches, and national veteran and civic organizations in or around National POW/MIA Day September 18th.

 

POW/MIA Ceremony Photo Opportunities

Veteran Flag Line

Recognition and welcoming of guests:  John Miterko

Welcome by Harry Bradley, Texas State Cemetery Superintendent

Presentation of Colors

Pipes & Drums

Pledge of Allegiance

Invocation

POW/MIA Table Ceremony

Reading of the names of VVA and TAVV members who have died

Native American Blessing

Reading of Names by Branch of Service

Fire Base ceremony

21-Gun Salute

Echo Taps

Amazing Grace

Presentation of wreaths

Reading of proclamations

Retirement of Colors