DMA Honors Prisoners of War and those still Missing in Action
Washington, D.C. — September 2020
Prisoners of War (POW) and those still Missing in Action (MIA) were honored September 17, 2020 at NAS Oceana’s Flame of Hope Memorial. In 1972, Squadron members of Attack Squadron 43 (VA-43) wanted to create a park that honored their missing squadron-mates and others who were missing in action in Vietnam. They decided to create a Flame of Hope to ensure the POWs and those Missing in Action were not forgotten. The Memorial itself was built by a team of volunteers that was anchored by members of Construction Battalion 415 (CBU-415). The resulting Memorial and its surrounding park were dedicated May 22, 1972. A remembrance ceremony is held annually on 17 September in conjunction with the base’s Air Show. In years past, military groups from local bases as well as various VFWs have conducted ceremonies to honor our POWs and MIA troops. The Commanding Officer of Oceana would give a speech and welcome honored guests, including former POWs or their spouses, who also spoke.
This year, due to Covid restrictions, the day passed with much less fanfare, but with no less solemnity. Groups were given 15 minute slots to pay respects and lay wreaths, if desired. DMA, in keeping with its support for Vets, Pets, and Kids, was honored to be allowed a wreath-laying slot. Joseph Bond, Steve Crist, Sam Hinson, Mike Jackson, and Kim Rigazzi, part of DMA’s Veteran cohort, met at the Memorial, early in the morning, and placed a wreath at the base of the memorial. We will always be grateful for those who gave of themselves in defense of our country.
About Dynamic Management Associates
DMA is a SDVOSB specializing in acquisition consulting services to the Federal Government. DMA interprets and adapts Federal acquisition, financial, budgeting, and contracting policies to deliver innovative and time-sensitive solutions to our customers. DMA’s team members have exposure supporting large scale program office operations that includes a portfolio of contracts with over $150M in annual value.
