Palm Springs, CA

The City of Palm Springs will honor America’s prisoners of war and those still missing in action with a solemn flag-raising ceremony on Friday, Sept. 19, at 6:30 a.m. in front of Palm Springs City Hall, 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way.

The event marks National POW/MIA Recognition Day, a time to remember the courage, sacrifice, and service of U.S. military members who were held as prisoners of war or never returned home. As part of the observance, the POW/MIA flag will be flown at all City buildings throughout the day.
Mayor Ron deHarte, members of the Palm Springs City Council, and Chief of Police Andy Mills will join Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez (R-Indio), Amado C. Salinas, Department of California Chair for National Security & Foreign Relations, Commander John Picken of American Legion Palm Springs Owen Coffman Post 519, McArvie Crawford, Post 519 Chaplain (U.S. Air Force), and the Post 519 Color Guard for the ceremony.

On June 26, 2025, the Palm Springs City Council unanimously approved the annual display of the POW/MIA flag on key national observances including Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and National POW/MIA Recognition Day.

“We must never forget those who have not returned home and honor their service and sacrifice to our nation,” said Mayor deHarte. “Flying the POW/MIA flag is a powerful reminder of our enduring promise to account for every hero. My personal thanks to U.S. Navy Veteran Amado C. Salinas II for his leadership in seeking City Council approval to once again fly the POW/MIA flag and for organizing this flag raising ceremony.”

This observance underscores Palm Springs’ deep respect for veterans and their families — ensuring the legacy of those who sacrificed is never forgotten.