VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Space Launch Delta 30 will host the 2026 Prisoner of War/Missing in Action (POW/MIA) Remembrance Day Closing Ceremony on Friday, Sept. 18, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Vandenberg Space Force Base Flagstaffs (POW/MIA Memorial).
The solemn event is organized by the Air Force Sergeant’s Association Chapter 1356 and marks the culmination of a 24-hour honor vigil. Over the preceding 24 hours, Team Vandenberg members read aloud the names of over 60,000 POW/MIA service members from World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, while Airmen and Guardians completed a continuous 3-mile ruck and run carrying the POW/MIA flag.
The closing ceremony will feature the presentation of colors, a ceremonial flag folding, and the playing of Taps to honor those who have sacrificed in defense of the nation. Attendees will hear keynote remarks from Col. Justin A. Overmyer, deputy commander of Space Launch Delta 30.
What: 2026 POW/MIA Remembrance Day Closing Ceremony & Media Opportunity
When: Friday, Sept. 18, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. PT (Media escort arrival at 12:00 p.m.)
Where: Vandenberg Space Force Base Flagstaffs (POW/MIA Memorial)
MEDIA RSVP AND BASE ACCESS REQUIREMENTS
Due to security requirements at Vandenberg Space Force Base, all media representatives wishing to cover the event must RSVP no later than Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026, at 12:00 p.m.
Please submit the following information for all attending personnel to sld30.pa.workflow@us.af.mil: • Full name, as it appears on a government-issued ID • Media outlet • Date of birth • Driver’s license number and state of issuance
Registered media will meet at the Vandenberg SFB Visitor Center at 12 p.m. on Sept. 18 to be escorted to the ceremony location.
Vandenberg Space Force Base is a 180,000-acre national security installation on California’s Central Coast that serves as the nation’s West Coast spaceport and a premier missile test range. Operated by Space Launch Delta 30, Vandenberg enables assured access to space, supports Air Force Global Strike Command testing of the nation’s land-based nuclear deterrent, and provides training for space Guardians and all nuclear Airmen. The installation supports 54 mission partners, including organizations representing all three U.S. Space Force field commands—Combat Forces Command, Space Systems Command, and Space Training and Readiness Command—as well as U.S. Space Forces–Space. Vandenberg is a critical hub for space launch, missile testing, warfighter development, and national defense.