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Everett Alvarez Jr.US Navy pilot, US administration official
Date of Birth: 03.04.1937
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Naval Service and Vietnam War
- Captivity in North Vietnam
- Release and Retirement
- Post-Military Career
- Awards and Recognition
- Legacy
Early Life and Education
Everett Alvarez Jr. was born in San Mateo, California, and attended Santa Clara University before joining the military in 1960.
Naval Service and Vietnam War
Alvarez joined the U.S. Navy and became a pilot of the A-4 Skyhawk attack aircraft. During the first American airstrike on North Vietnam on August 5, 1964, Alvarez's plane was shot down over Thanh Hoa. He ejected but suffered a severe injury during the ejection.
Captivity in North Vietnam
Alvarez was captured the same day and held as the only American prisoner of war (POW) in North Vietnam for the first six months of his eight-and-a-half-year captivity. He was held in the notorious Hoa Lo prison (known as the "Hanoi Hilton") and subjected to beatings and torture.
Release and Retirement
Alvarez was released on February 12, 1973, in a prisoner exchange after the signing of the Paris Peace Accords. He resumed his service in the Navy and retired in 1980 with the rank of Commander.
Post-Military Career
After retiring from the military, Alvarez earned a Juris Doctor degree and served as Assistant Director of the Peace Corps and Assistant Secretary for Veterans Affairs in the U.S. government. He also authored two books, "Chained Eagle" and "Code of Conduct."
Awards and Recognition
Alvarez has received numerous awards and honors, including the Navy Cross, the Silver Star, and the Bronze Star. A park in California and a post office in Maryland have been named in his honor.
Legacy
Everett Alvarez Jr. is remembered as the first and longest-held American POW in North Vietnam during the Vietnam War. His resilience and courage in the face of adversity have inspired others and serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by American servicemen and women.
