First Baptist Church in Sikeston remembers POW/MIAs

SIKESTON — The First Baptist Church spent their entire Sept. 20 service around the national POW/MIA Remembrance Day.

This day is set aside to acknowledge and remember that over 80,000 Americans have been classified by the US government as either prisoners of war or missing in action.

During the service, Vietnam veterans Mike Parker and Tom Austin led the congregation in the emotional POW/MIA table ceremony.  This helped the congregation understand more about the POW/MIA experience.

Mathew Vroman, pastor of First Baptist Church commented, “All of our veterans have done so much, but I hope this special day makes our church and community think about our freedom.”

Vroman also hopes other churches will consider recognizing this date next year and beyond, adding, “This day is especially important for our Vietnam Vets who were treated so poorly when they returned home.” 

Austin echoed this as he encouraged everyone to especially thank Vietnam vets for their service.

The ceremony concluded with the church’s new POW/MIA flag being raised outside of the church.