AMERICANISM - POW/MIA

Americanism is an unfailing love of country, loyalty to its institutions and ideals, eagerness to defend it against all enemies, undivided allegiance to the flag, and a desire to secure the blessings of liberty and posterity. As American citizens and members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, we know what Americanism stands for.  It was, and is still, our responsibility to defend the United States in a time of peace as it is in time of war. 

The goal of the Americanism program is to promote to our members and the American public the concepts of Americanism: love of country, respect for the Flag, allegiance to the Constitution of the United States and loyalty to our institutions of government. We do this by celebrating the contributions of our forefathers and promoting special events that recognize significant dates and events in American history.
 
Samples of these significant dates and events from our past are provided below.
 
2026-2027 Americanism, Loyalty Day, POW/MIA Program (click here)
 

Director's Quarterly POW/MIA Report - February 2026
Director's Quarterly POW/MIA Report - June 2026

Post Americanism activities can include community events and special programs to celebrate and recognize significant days.   Among them, but certainly not limited to them, are the following examples.  Included is some specific information associated with the day or event.
 
 
Significant Americanism Days: 
US Flag Handling and Information: 
 
Downloadable Citations: 
  
 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

See the 2026 poster here

Order the 2026 POW/MIA Recognition Day Poster

Order your Poster, provided by the
Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency by
filling out this 2026 POW/MIA Poster Order Form

A great informational article:  POWs in America's Wars

 Vietnam War Michigan POW/MIAs alpha listing

Vietnam War Michigan POW/MIAs listing by month of loss
 

Nathan Moran, Americanism Director
5453 Rivertown Cir SW
Wyoming,  MI   49418
269-873-5420
americanism@vfwmi.vet

FOLLOW US

Statewide News

News & Info from your department

More than a Game: The legacy of the VFW Pool Tournament

In 1968, a friendly challenge to a game of pool was thrown out between VFW members from different parts of Michigan. Now, 56 years later, the VFW Michigan Pool League has attracted hundreds of veterans who compete annually.

MORE INFO

State Adjutant shares in-person memory of 1982 DC Vietnam Memorial dedication

VFW Department of Michigan Adjutant & Quartermaster Barry Walter attended the Washington D.C. Vietnam Memorial Dedication on November 13, 1982. Now, 76, Barry recalls being a 35-year-old VFW service officer, witnessing history for his generation of warriors.

MORE INFO

National News

Important info from National VFW

VFW Day of Service Sets New Record with Nearly 2,700 Events

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) announced today that its fifth annual VFW Day of Service reached a new miles...

MORE INFO

VFW Celebrates 250 Years of Freedom and Democracy

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - This Independence Day, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) calls upon all Americans to pause and reflect on the ...

MORE INFO

Commander's Corner

Commander Larry Thayer

Larry Thayer, a Life Member of VFW Post 9455, Owosso, District 9, was elected to serve as the State Commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Department of Michigan, on June 13, 2026 at the 107th State Convention.  Comrade Thayer brings with him a strong commitment to service, leadership, and advocacy for veterans across the state. With a steady focus on strengthening local posts and supporting the needs of Michigan’s veteran community, he has stepped into this role with dedication and a clear sense of purpose. His leadership reflects both a deep respect for the traditions of the VFW and a forward-looking approach to ensuring its continued impact.
 
A proud veteran of both the United States Navy and Army, Thayer’s military service laid the foundation for his continued work on behalf of fellow veterans. His experience in uniform instilled values of discipline, integrity, and teamwork that continue to guide his leadership today. As your State Commander, he is committed to honoring the sacrifices of those who served while expanding outreach, support programs, and camaraderie among veterans throughout Michigan.