From Marquis Lafayette to the Global War on Terror, French and American soldiers have stood sideby- side — and did so again at Bryant Commons.

The Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 789 held its annual POW/ MIA observance at Bryant Commons’ Veterans Memorial Walk on Friday, bringing attention to Americans who have been kept as prisoners of war and those whose fates remain undetermined.

“We have never met them but we know them,” veteran Paul Spence said, “because they are our brothers.”

Brig. Gen. Lionel Meny, the 3rd Infantry Division deputy commanding general for readiness, touched on the bonds between the U.S. armed forces, and the 3rd ID in particular, and his home.

“I am a dogfaced soldier and proud to be able to say it,” Brig. Gen. Meny, who serves in the French army, said. “It is a profound honor to address you as we gather to remember and pay tribute to America’s prisoners of war and missing in action.”

Brig. Gen. Meny said he was deeply moved by the ceremony and what it represents.

“The bond, between our two nations, runs deep, forged in the crucible of shared sacrifice across generation,” he said. “Our countries have stood shoulder to shoulder in defense of freedom. Today, as we honor those who have not returned from war, I am reminded that the cost of liberty is paid not only by those who fight but also those who wait, the families and loved ones who wait with uncertainty and unanswered questions. Their enduring hope and resilience in the face of such profound loss is truly inspiring.”

Brig. Gen. Meny, who has served in the Balkans, the Ivory Coast and in Afghanistan, pointed to the soldiers’ commitment that “transcends borders” and “unites our armed forces” of loyalty, duty and never leaving a fallen comrade behind. He also noted the POW/MIA flag and its motto of “you are not forgotten.”

“It is more than a phrase,” he said. “It is a promise, a promise to the missing and to their families and to all who served that we will never cease in our efforts to bring them home. Let us carry that promise in our hearts.

Local veterans also read the names of 50 service members from Georgia still listed as missing in action. Nearly 1,300 Georgians from all of the nation’s wars are listed as missing in action.

“To the veterans, I extend my deepest gratitude,” Brig. Gen. Meny said. “Your dedication ensures that we never forget, that we keep the flame of remembrance burning bright.”