Behind the Wings ®
The Podcast – S6, Episode 54
Retired Navy Commander Everett Alvarez Jr. shares his story of surviving the Hỏa Lò Prison as one of the longest-held prisoners of war in U.S. history.
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In this episode, Everett discusses flying the A-4 Skyhawk, being shot down in Vietnam, enduring harsh conditions and torture, and reacclimating to life back home after Operation Homecoming. Throughout his journey, Everett and fellow captives held onto the will to survive when all else was stripped away. There is a lot to learn!
Key Takeaways:
- Everett flew his A-4 Skyhawk in Operation Pierce Arrow, one of the first direct U.S. operations attacking North Vietnam. During this mission, his aircraft engine was hit, forcing him to eject.
- At the “Hanoi Hilton”, communication between POWs was strictly prohibited. However, prisoners developed the “Tap Code,” a secret method of tapping on the walls to spell out words.
- Returning home, Everett faced intense culture shock as he went from imprisonment to public figure while reconnecting with his family, adjusting to parades, speeches, and the spotlight.
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