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A crowd gathers for the opening of a new exhibit at the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, Fla., honoring POWs. (National Naval Aviation Museum/Facebook) Read more at: https://www.stripes.com/veterans/2025-09-20/pow-mia-day-museum-exhibit-19157872.html Source – Stars and Stripes
Episode 3111 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about about the three Navy Vietnam War POW’s who were honored at the National Naval Aviation Museum. The featured story appeared on the Stars and Stripes website. It is titled: ‘Live on in this new exhibit’: 3 veterans tell their stories as National Naval Aviation Museum debuts tribute to Vietnam War POWs!. It was submitted by Matthew Adams.
Adams reported that at the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, Florida, three extraordinary Navy pilots — John “Jack” Ensch, Everett Alvarez, and Michael “Mike” McGrath — were honored during the opening of a powerful new exhibit commemorating American prisoners of war. Their presence marked National POW/MIA Recognition Day and brought living testimony to the courage, endurance, and sacrifice of U.S. servicemen held in captivity during the Vietnam War.
Captain Jack Ensch, who flew 285 combat missions, was captured in August 1972 and endured seven months of captivity. Though he humbly described his experience as a “walk in the park” compared to others, his valor and resilience stand tall among heroes.
Commander Everett Alvarez, the first American pilot captured in North Vietnam, was shot down in August 1964 and spent an astonishing 8½ years as a prisoner — most of it in the brutal “Hanoi Hilton.” His grit, humor, and leadership set the tone for those who came after him. “You had to come early to get the good room,” he joked, embodying the indomitable spirit that helped sustain fellow POWs through years of suffering.
Commander Mike McGrath, gravely wounded when shot down in 1967, survived relentless torture and near death. His harrowing account of broken bones, brutal interrogations, and emotional resilience underscored the physical and psychological toll these men endured. He echoed the wisdom of fellow POW James Stockdale, reminding all that “resistance” wasn’t about perfection, but about bouncing back — again and again.
These three men personify bravery, sacrifice, and the unbreakable will of American warriors. Their stories now live on in the museum’s immersive exhibit, preserving their legacy and honoring all who were held captive in service to their country.
Listen to Episode 3111 and discover more about the three Navy Vietnam War POW’s who were honored at the National Naval Aviation Museum.
