Today, I join millions of other Americans who are taking a moment to remember the sacrifices of American prisoners of war and those still missing in action overseas.
Today marks the 23rd formal observance of National POW/MIA Recognition Day. It’s a reminder that wars have lasting effects on those who we send to fight and that we must do everything possible to account for those missing in action. It is an opportunity for all Americans to thank those who have served and honor the memory of those who never came home.
Everyone who answers our nation’s call to service deserves our thanks. But some pay a greater price, and we have a greater responsibility to recognize their profound sacrifice. Those taken prisoner by the enemy lost the very liberty they fought to defend. They endured conditions few of us can imagine, but must never forget.
Others paid the ultimate price to defend our country, yet their fate remains unknown. Hundreds of military and civilian personnel in the Department of Defense work tirelessly to account for those still missing and bring closure to their families. Just three months ago, the remains of a Connecticut soldier killed in North Korea in 1950 were finally laid to rest in our state. After 61 years Corporal Primo C. Carnabuci came home. Thus far in 2011, the remains of twenty-nine soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines listed as missing have been identified. I‘m grateful to the professionals who work so diligently to resolve these difficult cases and the volunteers who help them.
Today, we call particular attention to their efforts of and join in their pledge to leave no one behind and to never forget.