Gathering of Eagles Gen Jumper Award Presentation Capt Guy Gruters

On May 10, 2024, Capt. Guy D. Gruters (USAF-ret) delivered the Gathering of Eagles Gen Jumper Award Presentation at the USAF Air University. In his talk, Captain Gruters emphasized the importance of the Military Code of Conduct, sharing insights as a top-secret F-100F “Misty-29” Fast FAC (Forward Air Controller) and fighter pilot during the Vietnam War. He also highlighted the significance of the Son Tay Raid, the role of his personal faith, and the profound impact of church services held by POWs.
Captain Gruters spoke about five fellow POWs whose experiences were both harrowing and inspiring: Lance Sijan, Bud Day, John McCain, Robbie Risner, and John Peter Flynn (SRO/POW). Additionally, he reflected on the concept of “perfect leadership” and recounted his emotional return trip to Vietnam, where he met the NVA militia commander who had saved his life.
Throughout his Vietnam War service, Captain Gruters flew over 400 combat missions. He was shot down twice and spent a grueling 1,912 days as a Prisoner-of-War. His bravery and dedication earned him more than 30 combat awards, including two Silver Stars, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, two Bronze Stars for Valor, two Purple Hearts, the POW Medal, and over 20 Air Medals.

Other Videos You Might Be Interested In

U.S. Veteran Describes Being Prisoner of War in Vietnam

During the Vietnam War many United States soldiers were captured and held as prisoners of war (POW). Many soldiers reported being regularly tortured, and some were used for military propaganda. This segment from Iowa Public Television’s Iowans Remember Vietnam includes archival footage and interviews with Iowa veteran Harold Johnson. Johnson describes his role as a military jet pilot, his experience being captured, his days in captivity and his eventual release.

Read More »

‘Hanoi Hilton’ survivor Robert Shumaker, U.S. Navy (Full Interview)

Robert Harper Shumaker is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy who went on to serve as rear admiral and naval aviator in the U.S. Navy. Shumaker is best known for his resilience as a prisoner during the Vietnam War, and for coining the phrase ‘Hanoi Hilton,’ in reference to the notorious North Vietnamese prison. During his captivity, Shumaker was instrumental in the implementation of the ‘tap code’ that the prisoners used to communicate

Read More »

Ronald J. Webb Interview

Ronald J. Webb was commissioned a 2d Lt in the U.S. Air Force on January 22, 1960, through the Air Force ROTC program while he attended Indiana University. He would serve five years in the Air Force as a navigator, before an opportunity allowed him to earn his pilot wings in June 1966. Webb served as an F-4 pilot with the 390th Tactical Fighter Squadron at DaNang AB, South Vietnam beginning in March 1967. On

Read More »

Prisoners of War Panel: First Reactions (Pt. 1) | Vietnam: Valor and Sacrifice Symposium

Inspiring stories of heroism and gripping tales of captivity of four Vietnam Medal of Honor recipients and four former Vietnam Prisoners of War. Each recalled their experiences and answered questions at the National Infantry Foundation’s “Vietnam: Valor and Sacrifice” symposium. The symposium was part of the dedication of the new Vietnam Memorial Plaza, featuring the Dignity Memorial® Vietnam Wall at the National Infantry Museum.

Read More »

John Fer Vietnam POW – Interview

Vietnam POW John Fer shares stories and insight based on his shoot-down, evasion, capture, interrogation, and internment in the Hanoi Hilton for 73 months. He was John McCain’s cellmate. Produced by Jarel and Betty Wheaton for Peninsula Seniors www.pvseniors.org

Read More »

Contact Us