On Friday, September 19th, 2025, NATIONAL POW/MIA RECOGNITION DAY, American Legion Post 41, along with the Syracuse and Onondaga County American Legion, held our 3rd annual ceremony commemorating the 83,000 service men and women still unaccounted for from all conflicts involving the United States.
The ceremony not only reflected those missing nationally, but also highlighted specific incidents with a connection to Central New York. From the co-designer of the POW/MIA flag, being a Syracuse University graduate, to Gregory J. Harris, namesake of the military courtesy room at Hancock Airport, a Fulton, NY native and Vietnam War POW and MIA. Others were present, remembering their own family members who were either a POW or are still MIA. It did become emotional at times.
It was a solemn and serene ceremony. Special thank you to our County Executive, J. Ryan McMahon, II, who graciously took time from his day to prepare and present a joint city/county Proclamation declaring that day as National POW/MIA Recognition Day. And to our speakers, Commanders James Bass, Herbert “Mick” Dunmore, Glen Wheelock and Mr. Pat Lyons from the Greg Harris Courtesy Room.
And another special thank you to the staff and students of Fowler High School’s PSLA Navy National Defense Cadet Corps (Sea Cadets), who ALWAYS make time to assist our American Legion whenever asked. They are very respectful and professional citizens, and we are thankful for them, as they represent the future of our Country.
We appreciate the efforts of the OCVSA for reserving the room in which the ceremony was held. It’s incredible what the War Memorial looks like inside—a moving tribute to all service members, especially our POWs and MIAs.
