It is considered acceptable (and in fact it is encouraged) if
your POW's remains are returned to US soil, that you send a note to the family
but continue to wear the bracelet until they all return home.
Some folks have taken their bracelets to jewelers and had them engraved
with a star to show that the remains were returned home. Others have pasted
on a star like the ones we got on our papers in grade school.
First, check the status of the individual using the
biography index.
If he is STILL listed as POW (Prisoner of War), MIA (Missing in Action),
BNR (Body not Recovered), or PFOD (Presumptive Finding of Death)......
Be reminded the family would be greatly insulted if their loved one was abandoned
AGAIN by you returning the bracelet now. The pledge with the bracelet is
"till he comes home." That means LIVE, body, teeth OR in this day of associative
identification, when the family accepts what is offered. It also means, if
need be, the bracelet is worn for the next however many days or years or
God forbid, decades. Broken or worn bracelets can be left at the WALL or
a Memorial when replaced with a new one. A note and a POW decal with it can
STILL focus attention on that man, even when left that way.
If remains are returned...
Rarely do we have contact with a family member. The United States Government
is the only entity having a list of current family addresses. Again, the
bracelet can be left at the WALL, or a Memorial.
If the bracelet belongs to a former prisoner of war that returned
alive...
While we cannot disclose home address or telephone numbers, we can forward
mail. If you choose to make contact, SEAL your item/note/letter. Address
that package to the name on your bracelet. (DO NOT write rank; most were
promoted and are now retired) We will complete the address and forward your
note the same day. If, for any reason (no address or deceased) we cannot
forward your letter, we will return it.
Mail your item/note/letter to:
P.O.W. NETWORK
Box 68
Skidmore, MO 64487-0068
We cannot guarantee that you will receive an answer, but in most cases the
returnee will correspond directly with you.
Click here if you are looking
to purchase POW/MIA bracelets.
Click the button above to view the POW/MIA Freedom Fighters Index
FIND IT FAST
Just Type In Any Word or Name and Select FIND!
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