Photo By Benjamin Remmert | A fire truck displaying the POW/MIA flag serves as the backdrop for the 24-hour run...... read more read more
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SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas — Members of Team Sheppard paused on September 18th to honor and remember America’s prisoners of war and those still missing in action during a series of events including a 24-hour run, a remembrance luncheon and a retreat ceremony.
The observance began with Airmen and members of the community participating in the annual POW/MIA 24-hour run, a tradition meant to symbolize the nation’s continuous commitment to accounting for the more than 81,000 Americans still missing from past conflicts. During the run, names of the missing were read aloud.
At a luncheon following the conclusion of the run, guest speaker Shannon Spake, a Gold Star daughter, shared her family’s story. Her father remains among those unaccounted for.
“With my father among the 81,000+ POW/MIA, I ask that you don’t see it as history long past, but remember the families, like mine, still waiting and hoping for their loved one’s return,” Spake said..
Col Kellie Courtland, deputy commander at Sheppard AFB, also delivered remarks, emphasizing the responsibility today’s service members carry in honoring that sacrifice.
“It’s on the shoulders of giants like Ms. Spake’s father, and so many other POW/MIA heroes, that we stand today,” Col Courtland said. “Because of their sacrifice, we are able to serve — and it is our duty, our charge, to ensure their legacy is never forgotten.”
The day concluded with a retreat ceremony, as the Sheppard community gathered to lower the American flag in solemn remembrance.
| Date Taken: | 09.22.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 09.22.2025 14:57 |
| Story ID: | 548972 |
| Location: | TEXAS, US |
| Web Views: | 43 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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