Each year on March 9 we observe U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day as an intentional moment of unity, reflecting on our obligation to seek the safe return of American hostages and wrongful detainees abroad.
Through the Tenacity of Many
U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day was established through the enactment of Public Law 118–31 on December 22, 2023, and announced via Presidential Proclamation (linked below).
This legislation designates March 9 of each year as a day to recognize and raise awareness for U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents who are held hostage or wrongfully detained in and by other countries.
How Can We Add to the Observances?
Observances on this day include the display of the Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Flag, which serves as a symbol of the nation's commitment to acknowledging and prioritizing the freedom of these individuals.
While anyone can choose to fly the flag at any time, the law and updated U.S. Flag Code specifies that the Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Flag should be displayed at designated federal locations on March 9, and on other significant days throughout the year— Flag Day (June 14) and Independence Day (July 4).
For those seeking more information about U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day, resources are available through various official avenues —
- Full text of S.769 - U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day Act of 2023 on the United States Congress website.
- Language appended to the U.S. Flag Code, "§904. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee flag," on the U.S. House of Representatives U.S. Code website.
- Presidential Proclamation of the inaugural U.S. Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day in 2024 on the archival White House website.
- The Bring Our Families Home action and information website.
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Have a great day, from your friends at LIBERTY FLAGS, The American Wave®.
