The exhibit hall at the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) annual summer conference has a new addition this year – a POW/MIA Hall of Remembrance, featuring posters listing the names of known POW/MIAs from each Maryland county. Answering a call to action presented by Charles County Commissioner President Candice Quinn Kelly [D], on behalf of the board of commissioners, every county in Maryland has committed to flying the POW/MIA flag in their respective county.
“The POW/MIA flag is important because it is a symbol of our willingness to join the families of POW/MIAs in faithfully hoping for and remembering those who gave up their freedom protecting ours,” said Kelly. “When we held the flag dedication ceremony last year, I did not imagine that this idea would spark such a movement. Now, I am heartened to know that all Maryland counties, using Charles County’s event as a model, will display this symbol as an ever-present reminder at local government buildings across the state.”
The POW/MIA project dates back to 2012, and is supported by the Charles County Board of Commissioners. The project holds special meaning for Kelly, who spearheaded efforts to fly the POW/MIA flag in Charles County, in dedication to all POWs and in remembrance of Frances DeSales Wills, Charles County’s only listed MIA. Her vision stemmed from a request she received from a local member of the Rolling Thunder, Maryland Chapter.
On Tuesday, Sept. 25, 2012, Charles County became the first county in Maryland to officially fly the POW/MIA flag at its local government buildings. The POW/MIA flag now flies year-round at the Charles County Government Building and at the Charles County Sheriff’s Office headquarters in La Plata. Also, the newly opened Maryland Veterans Museum in Charles County will display the flags of every county in Maryland since they are committed to flying the POW/MIA flag. A memorial listing of POW/MIAs throughout Maryland will also be included.
