CSM Gary W. Crisp American Legion Post 289 of Clarksville, Tenn., conducted its annual POW-MIA Recognition Ceremony on Friday, Sept. 18, 2026, at Sykes Funeral Home, 424 Franklin St.
The solemn ceremony honored the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who were held as Prisoners of War (POW) and those who remain Missing in Action (MIA).
Members of Post 289, veterans, family members, community leaders and guests gathered to pay tribute to those who served our country and made the ultimate sacrifice. The ceremony emphasized the nation's continuing commitment to remembering servicemembers who have not returned home.
Clarksville City Mayor Joe Pitts presented a city proclamation to Past Post Commander Marc Mathes in recognition of the official proclaimed day.
A traditional POW-MIA Empty Chair was displayed during the ceremony, symbolizing those American servicemembers who remain unaccounted for. The empty chair serves as a solemn reminder that these veterans and their families must never be forgotten.
The Post 289 honor guard participated in the ceremony, providing military honors and helping maintain the dignity and solemnity of the occasion.
The ceremony also recognized the families who have carried the burden of uncertainty while waiting for answers concerning their missing loved ones. Their strength, sacrifice and perseverance remain an important part of America's military history.
CSM Gary W. Crisp Post 289 is committed to honoring America's veterans, supporting active-duty military personnel and their families, and ensuring that future generations remember the sacrifices of America's servicemembers.
The American Legion CSM Gary W. Crisp Post 289, located in Clarksville, Tennessee, is dedicated to serving veterans, their families, the military community and the citizens of the surrounding area. Through veteran support, youth programs, community service, Americanism and remembrance ceremonies, Post 289 upholds the principles and traditions of The American Legion.
American Legion Media Alliance Contact
Ernest A. Schmidt
2nd Vice Commander / Event Director
CSM Gary W. Crisp Post 289
Clarksville, Tenn.
Phone: 931-801-6569
