McConnell Air Force Base in Kansas observes National POW/MIA Recognition Week

POW/MIA
Photo credit Getty

KANSAS CITY - The third week in September is known as National POW/MIA Recognition Week.

It's a time to honor service members who were prisoners of war and those who are still missing in action.

McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita has been hosting a series of events, including a 24-hour memorial walk that began on Tuesday morning.

While teams worked in shifts, one service member committed to walking for the entire 24 hours as 2-flags continuously moved around a 1-mile section of the base.

National POW/MIA Recognition Day was established in 1979 through a proclamation signed by President Jimmy Carter. Since then, each subsequent president has issued an annual proclamation commemorating the third Friday in September as National POW/MIA Recognition Day.

Other events at the base include a wreath laying ceremony, and a closing tribute.

The government says there are approximately 81,000 American service members and civilians unaccounted for from past conflicts, with the majority lost during World War II.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Getty