Being a Prisoner of War in Vietnam for Over 5 Years: Unfiltered Stories from a 95 year old Fighter Pilot | Ep 33

Lieutenant Colonel Jay Hess spent five and a half years as a prisoner of war in Vietnam — but in this conversation, he shares what truly kept him alive: faith in God, the love of his family, and a quiet conviction that he still had a purpose.

In this powerful episode, Jay recounts how he survived captivity, how he communicated without words, and what those years of silence taught him about forgiveness, identity, and freedom. His voice is steady. His wisdom is deep. And his legacy — undeniable.

This is more than a war story. It's a masterclass in grace, endurance, and the human spirit.

About Our Guest

Lieutenant Colonel Jay Hess is a retired U.S. Air Force pilot and Vietnam War veteran who spent over 5 years as a prisoner of war in the infamous Hỏa Lò Prison — known as the "Hanoi Hilton." Shot down over North Vietnam in 1967, Jay endured brutal conditions, isolation, and the daily fight to hold onto hope.

But his story isn’t just one of survival — it’s one of faith, resilience, and identity. Since returning home, Jay has dedicated his life to sharing the lessons he learned in captivity: the power of prayer, the strength found in stillness, and the meaning of freedom. His humility and clarity make him not just a war hero, but a spiritual guide for those facing invisible battles of their own.

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*News Stories - https://www.historynet.com/my-war-jay-hess/

https://kutv.com/news/local/utahs-jess-hess-survived-more-than-5-years-in-notorious-hanoi-hilton-in-vietnam 

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