THOSE WHO SERVE POWs, Those Missing In Action Honored At Capitol
Reported by: Bethany Simmons
Web Producer: Jeff Morris
Reported: Sep. 21, 2012 4:18 PM EDT
Updated: Sep. 21, 2012 4:26 PM EDT
Eyewitness News Photo
Charleston
, Kanawha County
, West Virginia
Prisoners of war, those missing in action and their families were honored in a special ceremony at the state Capitol Friday.
Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin proclaimed Friday as POW/MIA Day in West Virginia.
"Today, we reaffirm our commitment to bring every American soldier home. We pledge that for as long as it takes, we will carry the legacy of these American heroes and await their return," Tomblin said. "The stark black and white flag honoring America's Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action will always serve as a powerful reminder – you are not forgotten."
West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance Cabinet Secretary Keith Gwinn said. prisoners of war and those still missing in action “hold a special place in the hearts of all who have served and in the hearts of all Americans. The sacrifices made by those heroes and their loved ones are beyond words, and we can never fully express the depth of our gratitude. Please take a moment today to remember those brave individuals, and what their service has done for you and your family."
About 83,000 Americans are still missing from World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Cold War, the Persian Gulf War and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
*Photo Courtesy of Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin's Office
Tomblin greets Hershel Woodrow "Woody" Williams before the event.
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Bethany Simmons
