Proclamation 9930-National POW/MIA Recognition Day, 2019
Issued 2019-09-19 by Donald J. Trump
Plain-English Overview
AI-generated summary explaining what this action does, who it affects, and why it matters
President Trump issued a proclamation designating September 20, 2019, as National POW/MIA Recognition Day. This proclamation sets aside a day for the nation to honor former American prisoners of war and to remember service members who remain missing in action. It's a ceremonial declaration that doesn't create new laws or require anyone to do anything—it simply expresses the President's call for Americans to recognize these service members.
The proclamation specifically honors those who endured captivity as prisoners of war and reaffirms the commitment to locating and identifying more than 81,000 American service members who remain unaccounted for. It directs that the POW/MIA flag be flown over the White House, Capitol, various federal buildings including the Departments of State, Defense, and Veterans Affairs, war memorials, post offices, and national cemeteries on September 20, 2019. The proclamation mentions that 261 American service members from the D-Day invasion remain missing in action.
This type of presidential proclamation is a longstanding tradition dating back to George Washington. It serves to bring national attention to a cause and encourage Americans and organizations to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies. The proclamation requires no congressional approval and imposes no legal obligations on citizens or organizations.
AI-generated summary for educational purposes
Constitutional Analysis
How this action fits (or doesn't) within Article II authority and existing law
This proclamation designates "Proclamation 9930-National POW/MIA Recognition Day, 2019" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to mia recognition. Presidents have issued ceremonial proclamations since George Washington, and they fall squarely within the executive tradition. They do not create new law, direct federal spending, or impose legal obligations on citizens.
Ceremonial proclamations like this one are purely declaratory. They express the sentiment of the President on behalf of the nation, drawing public awareness to causes or communities. They require no congressional approval and face no constitutional challenges.
Official Summary
Administration of Donald J. Trump, 2019 Proclamation 9930—National POW/MIA Recognition Day, 2019 September 19, 2019 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Our American story is filled with countless examples of patriots who have gone beyond the call of duty to defend our precious liberties and cherished freedoms. National POW/MIA Recognition Day is an opportunity for our Nation to honor the intrepid spirit and admirable bravery of all former American prisoners of war, while also reaffirming our promise never to relent in our quest to locate the Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, Coast Guardsmen, Merchant Marines, and civilians who remain missing in action. Seventy-five years ago, more than 150,000 American and Allied troops took part in the D-Day invasion on the beaches of Normandy. Among the stalwart heroes who helped alter history for the betterment of humankind on the morning of June 6, 1944, are 261 American service members missing in action. Their immeasurable sacrifice will forever be preserved in the hearts of those who continue to enjoy the hard-earned blessings of peace and prosperity. As Americans, it is our sacred duty to pay tribute to the brave men and women of our Armed Forces for their service and sac