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Public Testimony

Graham testimony: Air Force birthday, POW/MIA Day, and family sacrifice

New York City Council · Sep 18, 2026 · starts 2:58:47 · 56 sec

Graham acknowledges Air Force birthday and National POW/MIA Recognition Day, noting nearly 81,000 service members never came home, with families never receiving closure. He emphasizes the heavy burden families bear during deployment.

Member of the Public - Ryan Graham

But like I said, I don't have anything on paper, but as a veteran myself, Air Force veteran, for anybody that doesn't know, I served in the U.S.

Member of the Public - Ryan Graham

Air Force from...

Member of the Public - Ryan Graham

2002 to 2008, so I went in right after 9-11.

Member of the Public - Ryan Graham

As Chair Marano mentioned, today is, I got to wear my shirt, today is the Air Force's birthday.

Member of the Public - Ryan Graham

Today's another important day.

Member of the Public - Ryan Graham

I'm not sure if you mentioned it, Chair Marano.

Member of the Public - Ryan Graham

Today's also National POW MIA.

Member of the Public - Ryan Graham

Recognition Day.

Member of the Public - Ryan Graham

There's almost 81,000 individuals that never came home, majority from World War II, so their families never really got closure.

Member of the Public - Ryan Graham

So the families, they take on a big, very, very big burden when people are deployed.