"The Rock" in Meredith, NH’s Hesky Park
Our friend Bob Jones of the Northeast POW/MIA Network sends the following heads up regarding a special event to take place tomorrow in Meredith, NH recognizing the Nation’s POW/MIAs:
September 19th is national POW/MIA recognition day. The “NH Original POW/MIA Memorial” in Meredith’s Hesky Park “The Rock” has been the hub for POW/MIA information and recognition.
“The Rock” will have a small symbol placed there for the day. A small bag with lemon, a pinch of salt, a rose, matches and red ribbon. The Lemon to remind us of the bitter fate of those CAPTURED…POW’s. The Pinch Of Salt reminds us of the tears shed by those missing and their families. The Rose reminds us of the LIFE of each POW/MIA. The Matches, to keep the fire burning in the name of Faith and Trust and the Red Ribbon is a symbol of our Determination and Responsibility to “ALL” POW’s/MIA’s Past, Present and Future.
9 small POW/MIA Flags will surround The Rock symbolizing NH being the 9th State in the union and Meredith “The Rock”, the NH Original POW/MIA State Memorial.
Blue Star Mother of NH president Karen Thurston tells us that
POW/MIA Recognition Day is a day of remembrance and hope for the speedy and safe return of American Prisoners of War, and those still Missing in Action. It also seeks the return of the remains of fallen soldiers.
The first official commemoration of POW/MIAs was July 18, 1979. It was the result of resolutions passed in Congress. The first national ceremony was held on this date. Over the next several years, it was held in varying dates of the year. Finally, in 1986, The National League of Families proposed the third Friday in September as a day to recognize and remember POW/MIAs. This date was selected, as it is not associated with any wars. Each year, the president of the United States issues a proclamation on this day.
She asks everybody to
please take a few moments Friday to remember our missing soldiers, and those held as prisoners of war. Attend a ceremony in your area. Say a prayer for POWs and MIAs. Also, write to your senators and congressman to urge continued and increased effort towards bringing every service man and woman home.
Never Forget! Bring them ALL home…