The Untold Stories of US Navy POWs from the Vietnam War

The Vietnam War saw thousands of American service members held captive by enemy forces, with many enduring unimaginable hardships and suffering for years on end. Among these brave individuals were a group of US Navy personnel who found themselves in the clutches of their captors during this tumultuous period. In this article, we'll delve into the stories of some of these courageous sailors, exploring their experiences as prisoners of war (POWs) from the Vietnam War.

One such individual was Ernest Cary 'Brace' Vance, a decorated Marine Corps fighter pilot who spent almost eight years in captivity after being captured in Laos in 1965 while flying supplies for USAID. Before his capture, Vance had already made a name for himself as a skilled aviator, earning his Pilot's Wings and commission as a Second Lieutenant from the Aviation Cadet School. During his tour in the Korean War, he flew over 100 missions, participating in daring dive-bombing attacks against enemy targets.

Despite his impressive military record, Vance's capture came as a shock to those who knew him. He was held captive for years, subjected to harsh conditions and mistreatment by his captors. However, despite these challenges, Vance remained resolute, using his skills and resourcefulness to survive and ultimately earn his release.

Another notable example of a US Navy POW from the Vietnam War is . Like Vance, this individual endured unimaginable hardships during their time in captivity, including forced labor, physical abuse, and psychological manipulation. Despite these challenges, they refused to give up, using their experiences as an opportunity to grow and learn.

The stories of these US Navy POWs from the Vietnam War serve as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served their country during this tumultuous period. Their bravery, resilience, and determination in the face of adversity are an inspiration to us all, and their contributions to our nation's history should never be forgotten.

Us navy pows from vietnam war