POWs, MIA troops remembered for sacrifices Published Sept. 21, 2009 By Airman 1st Class Candy Miller 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- All the sacrifices of prisoners of war and troops missing in action were remembered Sept. 18 during POW/MIA Recognition Day. Retired Air Force Col. Richard Mac Isaac, the guest speaker at a luncheon for the observance, said this recognition day is sacred on military calendars and "no other nation, friend or foe, does what the U.S. does in regards to POWs and MIA troops." He said the U.S. uses its money, manpower and resources to return troops to their family because the country has a solid pledge to do so. The U.S. sends troops overseas to fight intending for them to return, he said. "We want you back and we don't want to waste the time or money to replace you," he said. "We will do whatever we can do to get you back." The retired colonel shared the accounts of his friends and families that were POWs or MIA. He said his father was a POW; a friend was MIA until his remains were later found and another friend was able to escape becoming a POW. Hearing real stories of POWs and MIA troops affected Airmen like Staff Sgt. Cordell Richardson, and instructor in the 366th Training Squadron. Sergeant Cordell said being educated about the sacrifices POWs and fellow servicemembers that are MIA prevents him from taking his way of life for granted. "I really didn't know much about POWs or MIA troops, but it hit home hearing what it was like for them," he said. "One day I could be a POW or MIA and it's good to know the country doesn't forget and they will come and get you." Colonel Mac Isaac said one of the best ways to prevent becoming a POW or MIA starts at Sheppard through training. "Train yourselves to the highest level you can in your career and train your body," he said. He said there were many former POWs that wouldn't have been able to escape their situation if they weren't fit.