Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III emphasized the importance of locating and identifying the remains of service members killed in conflicts as a commitment of the Defense Department and the nation during a National Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Recognition Day ceremony at the Pentagon. Austin, who spent 41 years in the Army, highlighted the soldier’s creed of never leaving a fallen comrade behind, stating that bringing troops home is a priority regardless of the circumstances. He praised the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency for identifying the remains of 111 service members from World War II, 28 from the Korean War, and four from the Vietnam War in the past year, acknowledging the agency’s collaboration with diplomats and others from 46 nations to recover remains.
During his visit to the agency’s laboratory in Hawaii, Austin witnessed firsthand the efforts of anthropologists, archaeologists, and scientists using the latest forensic techniques to identify remains. He described the work as physically and emotionally challenging but emphasized that it is a labor of love and a sacred calling. Austin spoke about the significance of the POW/MIA flag, which serves as a rallying cry to honor those who were not forgotten, expressing solidarity with the families of those still missing who endure uncertainty, absence, and grief. He assured them that the Defense Department will continue its efforts to locate and identify their loved ones, never giving up hope and always honoring their sacrifice and service.
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Air Force Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., also expressed gratitude towards POWs, families of those still missing, and service organizations that support them, acknowledging the sacrifices made by service members throughout the history of the nation to defend liberty. He recognized the trials faced by these heroes, including being captured by enemy forces and held in horrific conditions, or never making it home. Brown emphasized that the legacy of these service members lives on in the hearts of their families, fellow service members, and in the fabric of the nation, highlighting the importance of honoring their service and sacrifice.
In conclusion, the commitment to locating and identifying the remains of service members killed in conflicts is a top priority for the Defense Department and the nation, as highlighted by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Air Force Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. The efforts of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency in identifying the remains of fallen service members from various wars demonstrate the dedication to bringing closure to families and honoring the sacrifices made by these heroes. The solemn ceremony at the Pentagon on National Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Recognition Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing commitment to never forget those who have served and continue to work towards bringing them home.
