Let's not forget their sacrifices

  • Published
  • By Gen. Greg Martin
  • Air Force Materiel Command commander
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFPN) --  Numbering more than 93,000 and dating to the first World War, they came from different states, walks of life and social status. Despite their differences, they were sworn to the same cause -- freedom -- and suffered the same fate.

You can find their names listed in the Defense Department's Prisoner of War - Missing in Action files. They are the soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen who gallantly went into harm's way and have yet to come home.

I don't know these men and women personally. I am not sure if they were married, had children or exactly what their lot in life was. I do know these warriors are listed as missing in action from World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, Desert Storm and all other conflicts where American service members were involved.

Many Americans made the ultimate sacrifice in those conflicts, and others were captured and taken as prisoners of war. These heroes endured torture, suffering and pain.

Some of them have been scarred for life. Others may have come home with less permanent trauma.

But for the thousands whose remains have not been returned or are unaccounted for, the situation is worse. Many families still wait for news of their loved one's fate -- any shred of information. Did they suffer? Was it quick? Could they still be alive? We'll never know how great the load they bear.

On Sept. 19, National POW-MIA Recognition Day, we should take time to show the family members and former POWs that we remember and are thankful for the sacrifices made for the cause of freedom, and that we will not settle for anything less than a full accounting of those souls still unaccounted for.

POW-MIA recognition ceremonies will be held throughout the nation and around the world. I encourage each of you to take time away from that day's business to reflect and honor the sacrifices made by former prisoners of war and their families.

It is my hope and prayer that all those still missing will someday be accounted for. Until that day comes, let us not forget. (Courtesy of AFMC News Service)