National League of POW/MIA Families

Today marks 52 years since Sonny and Cher warmly welcomed a Vietnam War POW home on their iconic Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour. In a heartfelt moment that blended their signature humor with genuine compassion, the duo offered a televised embrace to an American hero, 25-year old Air Force officer named John Nasmyth. It was a small, but powerful, gesture during a time when the nation was grappling with the war’s toll, showcasing their ability to connect with audiences beyond entertainment. Let’s take a moment to honor that memory, the bravery of our veterans, and the power of kindness. Qualities that still resonate in 2025. https://lnkd.in/emXXFEsd

The League deeply appreciates the courage and resolve these volunteers demonstrate every time they leave their families and go out into such a dangerous environment to search for our missing loved one. https://lnkd.in/eHuE6gPx

This morning, the League discovered an incredibly moving article. Mr. Holland has been waiting DECADES to find his father, a story many of you can relate to, and now, there's finally some hope. Click below to read the full story ↓ https://lnkd.in/gj8qNEaV

Last month, a DPAA team set up a recovery site in Laos with the hope of identifying Vietnam War servicemen and civilians. To see additional photos and learn more about this recovery mission, click the link below ↓ https://lnkd.in/eTUS2B4S

Khamla Phomsichanh, deputy director of Lao Skyway, briefs a DPAA recovery team during a mission in Laos, Jan. 16, 2025. Phomsichanh discussed proper boarding procedures, safety precautions, and general dos and don’ts when flying on Lao Skyway helicopters. Link to this post is below ↓↓ https://lnkd.in/ecB4zKXC

Today marks the 52nd anniversary of the Paris Peace Accords, a pivotal moment in history that laid the foundation for Operation Homecoming and led to the return of numerous Vietnam War POWs. As the National League of POW/MIA Families, we honor this day not only to remember the agreement signed on January 27, 1973, but also to renew our commitment to the accounting mission. Despite the POW repatriation called for in the accords, 1,573 families of Vietnam War servicemen and civilians still await answers about their missing loved ones. We continue to fight for the fullest possible accounting, urging our government to keep its commitment to do its best to bring home these Vietnam War heroes. #NeverForget #POWMIA #ParisPeaceAccords

Many people in our country are unaware of National POW/MIA Recognition Day. The League hopes to change that, starting with this one-minute YouTube Short that quickly and directly explains this special day's significance. Please watch and, while you're at it, consider subscribing to our YouTube Channel. You'll learn why our accounting mission is urgent and get updates when information is released. https://lnkd.in/ecWqMhgw

DPAA and the Vietnam Office for Seeking Missing Persons (VNOSMP) participated in a site blessing ceremony in Vietnam on Nov. 3, 2024. The ceremony included the preparation of a ceremonial shrine and a moment of prayer to honor the memory of the missing before excavation began. Following local traditions, the event marked the start of a collaborative mission to recover material evidence that may assist in identifying U.S. personnel from past conflicts. This practice underscores the shared commitment of DPAA and VNOSMP to account for those still missing. ??Vietnam ?? U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Kayla Halloran #NeverForget ??? #OurPromise

DPAA teams conducted pre-deployment site survey operations in the Socialist Republic of Vietnam on Nov. 3, 2024, to locate the 1,576 personnel still missing from the #VietnamWar. These missions combine advanced technology and teamwork to identify potential recovery sites. Scientific Recovery Experts like Dr. Lauren Santini and Robert Ingraham assess #Soil and terrain using satellite-linked metal detectors, while U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Matthew Sponagle ensures safety with explosive ordnance disposal techniques—linguists like U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Tiffany Le facilitates communication with local officials and workers, ensuring every mission is carried out safely and effectively. ?? Socialist Republic of Vietnam ?? U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Cole Yardley #NeverForget??? #OurPromise

There will be a public dedication of a truly stunning (pictured below) POW/MIA Memorial Monument at the Courthouse Square in Jasper, Indiana on Dec. 1 at 10 a.m. If you're in the area, consider honoring the sacrifices of our POWs and MIAs by attending, thanks to the efforts of Eagle Scout Samual Osterman as well as the community's support!