Accession Number: 2023-023-20
Original work: Sculpture, Bronze Wood Base
Original size:
On 5 August 1964, Lt (j.g.) Everett Alvarez, Jr., call sign “War Paint 411,” wingman to the leader of ten A-4C Skyhawks of VA-144, the “Roadrunners” off the USS Constellation (CV-64). Their mission was to attack torpedo boats docked in the North Vietnamese port city of Hon Gai on the first day of the war in Vietnam. Following his second attack run he was forced to eject when his jet was struck by an explosion and became uncontrollable. He was fished out of the water by fishermen and ultimately held at the Hanoi Hilton, being regularly and brutally tortured until his repatriation 12 February 1973. He was the first American aviator taken prisoner and the second-longest-held American POW held during the war. His incredible success story is masterfully told in his book “Chained Eagle.” In various interviews since his return, he talks about his past as a POW for 8 ½ years in a low-key tone without bitterness or regret, but he has always looked optimistically to the future. This contrast is depicted when viewing his striped POW pajamas on the back of the sculpture, but viewing from the front he is restored as a commander at the culmination of his Navy career.
Reproduction Size:
If not indicated, the average reproduction is approximately 20x26 inches. All reproductions are custom printed and can be printed/framed to various sizes. We are happy to quote various options. Contact Us
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