On September 19, 2025, Fall River City, Massachusetts, held a poignant ceremony to honor POW/MIA Day, emphasizing the enduring commitment to remember those who have not returned from war. The event took place at the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Veterans Memorial Bicentennial Park, where community members gathered to reflect on the sacrifices made by service members.
During the ceremony, a veteran shared a heartfelt story from his early days with the Vietnam Veterans of America, recalling a time when he and fellow veterans attended a similar event with only a handful of attendees. He highlighted the importance of speaking the names of the missing, stating, "When a veteran's name is not spoken, he's forgotten." This sentiment underscored the day's theme: remembrance is vital, regardless of the number of participants.
Talos Ferris, the veteran service officer for Fall River, addressed the crowd, reminding them that the wall is not just a monument but a testament to the lives lost and families affected by war. He emphasized the need for active remembrance, urging the community to teach future generations about the significance of POW/MIA Day. Ferris also recited a moving poem he wrote, encapsulating the grief and gratitude felt by families and communities alike.
The ceremony concluded with the reading of names of those killed in action from Massachusetts, reinforcing the commitment to honor their memory. As the community gathered, they collectively affirmed, "You are not forgotten, you will never be." This powerful message resonated throughout the event, highlighting the ongoing responsibility to remember and honor those who served and sacrificed for their country.