Oregon Governor Proclaims Former Prisoner of War Day

More than 90 percent of all former POWs since 1917 were captured and interned during World War II. During that same time, 85 women were also among those held prisoner.

Photo courtesy: web.umr.edu/

(SALEM) - Governor Ted Kulongoski has signed a proclamation designating Monday, April 9th, as Former Prisoner of War (POW) Recognition Day in Oregon. Since World War I, more than 142,000 Americans have been held captive by hostile powers. Many of these prisoners suffered extreme physical injury, mental and emotional trauma while they were interned.

More than 90 percent of all former POWs since 1917 were captured and interned during World War II. During that same time, 85 women were also among those held prisoner. Kulongoski said the debt to these proud veterans for their sacrifice can never be repaid. "We honor and remember them by continuing to provide care and compensation for their service related injuries, diseases and illnesses. No one can ever fully understand what they endured," Kulongoski said. "Their devotion to duty and love of country stand as a measure of service that few others will attain. As a state, we're grateful to our former prisoners of war for their sacrifice to help protect the democratic ideals that make our country strong." The Director of the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs, Jim Willis, said nearly one-third of America's former POW's are still living and their loyal and steadfast service, even while in captivity, is a testament to the American spirit. "America will never forget these quiet heroes--all of our former prisoners of war who suffered adversity in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, Somalia, Kosovo, Iraq, and other conflicts," Willis said. "We remember and salute the service of all who were captured and interned." The Willamette Valley Chapter of American Ex-Prisoners of War and their families will gather for a ceremony at the Milwaukie Elks Lodge, located at 13121 S.E. McLoughlin Blvd., on April 9th, During the ceremony, at 1:30 PM, Willis will present the Governor's proclamation to the chapter's Commander, Cal Norman.