SALT LAKE CITY, UT — On September 19, 2025, Utah joins the nation in observing POW/MIA Recognition Day to remember and honor the sacrifices of those who were prisoners of war (POWs) or remain missing in action (MIA).
As Governor Spencer J. Cox stated in his recent declaration, "The absence of 1,575 Americans from the Vietnam War, compounded by the more than 7,000 unaccounted for from the Korean War, 126 from the Cold War, and a staggering 70,000 from WWII, continues to cast a shadow of uncertainty and sorrow."
These brave men and women, along with their families, have endured immeasurable hardship and uncertainty. Their unwavering courage and resilience serve as an inspiration to us all. Utah stands firmly with our nation in the ongoing commitment to account for every missing service member. We recognize the profound service and sacrifice of these valiant soldiers and their families.
Governor Spencer J. Cox has officially declared September 19, 2025, as POW/MIA Recognition Day in Utah. The declaration reads as follows:
WHEREAS, the absence of 1,575 Americans from the Vietnam War, compounded by the over 7,000 unaccounted-for from the Korean War, 126 from the Cold War, and a staggering 70,000 from WWII, continues to cast a shadow of uncertainty and sorrow; and
WHEREAS, the families and friends of unreturned Veterans, along with countless fellow Veterans and concerned Americans, endure an ongoing wait for the recovery and identification of their loved ones' remains, or, if deemed unrecoverable, for information that sheds light on their fates; and
WHEREAS, the solemn commitment to accounting for our nation's POW and MIA service members persists as a matter of utmost importance for our country; and
WHEREAS, the state of Utah not only commends and supports but also wholeheartedly shares our nation's unwavering dedication to accounting as comprehensively as possible for all Americans who remain missing or unaccounted for from past wars and conflicts; and
WHEREAS, Utah recognizes the profound service and sacrifice of these valiant soldiers and their families, and seeks to bestow upon them the honor they so richly deserve;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Spencer J. Cox, governor of the great state of Utah, do hereby declare September 19, 2025, as,
POW/MIA Recognition Day in Utah
Spencer J. Cox
Governor