POW/MIA Remembrance Ceremony Held at James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital

The ceremony took place at the hospital's new Mental Health Clinic, marking a significant tribute on the eve of National POW/MIA Recognition Day.

Sarah Cunningham, Center for Development and Civic Engagement Specialist at the Tampa VA, opened the ceremony with poignant remarks. "Good morning. We welcome all Veterans, staff, and volunteers joining us today to commemorate POW/MIA day, which is tomorrow, September 20. It is a solemn occasion to reflect on the sacrifices our heroes have made," she stated.

Chaplain Joseph Chacko provided the invocation, evoking a powerful sense of reverence and hope. "Almighty God, our Heavenly Father... We thank You for the blessings of freedom and the peace we cherish, secured by the sacrifice and suffering of our valiant comrades," he prayed.

Cunningham continued with the history and significance of the day, highlighting the enduring dedication to those who served. "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, asserting the unwavering commitment to remembering those who have not returned," she noted.

The ceremony featured a Presentation of the Colors, the National Anthem, and the Pledge of Allegiance, fostering a shared sense of patriotism among attendees.

A significant moment was the Missing Comrade Table Ceremony, presented by members of the BRAVE (Building Recovery and Achieving Veterans Empowerment) Veterans. One by one, they symbolically described the elements of the table set for one, each representing the absence and enduring spirit of their comrades. "This table, set for one, is small — symbolizing the frailty of one prisoner alone against his oppressors. Remember!" declared a BRAVE Veteran, as others followed with detailed symbolism.

The ceremony reached a touching moment where everyone joined in for a toast to honor America's POWs and MIAs.  "Let us now raise our water glasses in a toast to honor America’s POW/MIAs, to the success of our efforts to account for them, and to the safety of all now serving our nation," said Cunningham.

In closing remarks, Cunningham expressed gratitude to all who made the ceremony possible. "This concludes the formal portion of today’s events. We thank the American Legion Color Guard, Veterans, and volunteers who attended. Please join us for refreshments and activities in the courtyard," she invited.

One of the BRAVE Veterans commented on the importance of the day, "We remember our brothers and sisters who served with honor and courage. This ceremony is a testament to their sacrifice and our resolve to bring them home."

Reflecting on the day's emotional impact, Chaplain Chacko noted, "Today's gathering reinforces our collective vow — that until the day they come home, we will never forget."

Recognizing the service and sacrifice of POWs and MIAs, Cunningham concluded, "The health care provided in Tampa and throughout the VA system is the least we owe to these veterans. We remain dedicated to our mission, caring for those who have borne the battle."

As the event drew to a close, attendees were reminded of the ongoing efforts to recover and commemorate the more than 80,000 American service personnel still unaccounted for, affirming the nation's commitment to remembering and honoring those who gave their all for freedom.