Vietnam War POW Robert Stirm dies at 92

Former U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Robert Stirm, who gained fame for the iconic 1973 photo “Burst of Joy,” died at 92 on Veterans Day. The image, captured by Sal Veder, depicts Stirm’s emotional reunion with his family after being a POW in North Vietnam for nearly six years. Despite a celebrated military career, Stirm faced personal challenges post-release, including a divorce from his wife. He retired in 1977 and later worked in the corporate sector.

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