JAY – The Frank L. Mitchell VFW Post 3335, Auxiliary and the United Bikers of Maine will conduct a National Prisoners of Wars – Missing in Action Recognition Day program at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 16. The public ceremony will be held at the POW-MIA Remembrance Bridge Monument of All Wars at the corner of Route 4 and the Riley Road.

John Dube, chairman of the committee organizing the event, said it will be the 14th annual program. The monument was dedicated on April 25, 1992.

The United Bikers will open the program by riding from Turner Plaza through Livermore Falls to Jay, ending the 18-mile ride at the POW-MIA Bridge Monument. The 18 miles ridden each year represent the 18 POW-MIAs originally missing from the Vietnam War from the state.

Eric Fuller, Franklin County director of the United Bikers. said, “Every year we gather at the Turner Plaza on Route 4 around 5:45 p.m. and head out by 6 p.m. As we ride the 18-mile route, the loud sound of our bikes gives notice to the public that the National POW-MIA Recognition Day Program is about to unfold in Jay.”

The program will be conducted for prisoners and those still missing from all wars to remind residents they need to continue to urge the U.S. government to pursue the issue.

This year the American casket-size flag, which was draped over the casket of U.S. Army Corps World War II veteran, George Fournier, will be dedicated during the program. Smaller POW-MIA and a state flag will also be presented.

Anyone wishing to donate their loved one’s casket-size flag, or to donate a POW-MIA or state flag, to be flown on the yardarm at the memorial or at the war memorial in Chisholm Square, should contact John Dube at 897-5335. The POW-MIA Committee is inviting the public to attend the program.