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POW/MIA Recognition Day
The event will take place at the airport’s flagpole memorial rock area, with attendees encouraged to arrive by 8:30 a.m. The ceremony will begin at 9:00 a.m. with the raising of the POW/MIA flag beneath the United States flag.
Bill LaManque, Airport Director at Meadows Field, will be present, along with Jeffrey Goines and members of the Olive Drab Drivers, who will display restored World War II jeeps as part of the commemoration.
Observed nationally each September, POW/MIA Recognition Day pays tribute to the tens of thousands of U.S. service members who were taken prisoner or never returned from combat. This year’s ceremony also carries added meaning as it marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.
The date of September 19 also reflects key milestones in U.S. military and aviation history, including the September 2, 1945 surrender that ended World War II and the creation of the United States Air Force just one day after September 18, 1947, when the Army Air Forces were reorganized.
California Aeronautical University (CAU) representatives will attend the event in support of the local community and to honor the legacy of those who sacrificed for the freedoms enjoyed today.
“This ceremony is a powerful reminder of the courage and sacrifice of America’s heroes,” said Dr. Michael Berry, Provost of California Aeronautical University. “CAU is proud to stand alongside the Bakersfield community to recognize their service and ensure their stories are never forgotten.”
The ceremony is open to the public.
