On Friday, Sept. 19, the National Naval Aviation Museum will honor the unwavering spirit of U.S. prisoners of war from the Vietnam War with the grand opening of Return with Honor, a powerful new exhibit dedicated to their stories of survival, sacrifice, and hope.
The commemorative ceremony, held in the Blue Angels Atrium, invites the community to come together in remembrance and reflection. Beginning with pre-event entertainment by the Pensacola Symphony Brass at 9:30 a.m., the official program starts at 10 a.m., featuring personal testimonies from veterans who endured unimaginable hardships:
- Capt. John C. Ensch, USN (Ret.)
- Capt. Michael McGrath, USN (Ret.)
- Cmdr. Everett Alvarez, USN (Ret.)
Adding the perspective of families who carried the weight of waiting and advocating back home, Kathy Ensch will speak on behalf of the National League of POW/MIA Families.
Following the tribute, guests will witness the unveiling of the Return with Honor exhibit in Hangar Bay One. At its heart lies the infamous Hoa Lò Prison—known to American POWs as the “Hanoi Hilton.” Visitors will walk in the footsteps of brave men who lived through one of the most difficult chapters in U.S. military history, from capture through harrowing interrogations, isolation, and eventual release.
Through cutting-edge technology, guests will hear directly from Cmdr. Everett Alvarez, the first American POW held in North Vietnam. With interactive AI, Alvarez answers questions in his own voice, sharing memories of survival, resilience, and brotherhood that sustained him through over eight years of captivity.
“Return with Honor is more than an exhibit—it’s a testament to the courage of those who endured unimaginable hardships and a reminder about the power of hope, faith, and resilience,” said Rear Adm. Kyle Cozad, President and CEO of the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation.
Event Details:
- Date: Friday, Sept. 19
- Location: Blue Angels Atrium, National Naval Aviation Museum
- Time: 9:30 a.m. pre-event entertainment | 10 a.m. ceremony
- Admission: Complimentary – all welcome
