BREAKING: Robert Stirm, the U.S. Air Force veteran captured during the Vietnam War, has died at the age of 92 at an assisted living facility in Fairfield, California. His daughter, Lorrie Stirm Kitching, confirmed the news on Veterans Day, marking a poignant moment for a family that celebrated his return from captivity in a now-iconic photograph.
The photograph, known as “Burst of Joy,” captured the emotional reunion of Stirm with his family in 1973 at Travis Air Force Base. It depicts a young Stirm Kitching running towards her father with open arms, a moment that resonated across the nation and won a Pulitzer Prize for Associated Press photographer Sal Veder.
Kitching, now 68, reflects on that day, saying, “Just the feelings of that and the intensity of the feeling will never leave me.” She continued, “I am so grateful that my father was one of the lucky ones and returned home.”
Stirm’s journey to freedom was long and harrowing. He was shot down over North Vietnam on October 27, 1967, while serving with the 333rd Tactical Fighter Squadron. He endured captivity for 1,966 days across five different POW camps, including the notorious “Hanoi Hilton.”
In a remarkable twist, Stirm shared a wall with the late U.S. Senator John McCain during their imprisonment, where they communicated through a tapping code. “First time Dad laughed in jail,” Kitching shared, recalling a joke McCain had relayed.
The photograph not only encapsulated a moment of joy but also represented heartbreak for Stirm. After his release, he faced personal challenges, including a divorce from his wife, Loretta, who had sent him a “Dear John” letter while he was imprisoned. Kitching noted, “It hurt really deeply,” highlighting the duality of their story.
Stirm retired from the Air Force in 1977, following a distinguished career, and later joined Ferry Steel Products, continuing a family legacy. His passing on this significant day serves as a profound reminder of the sacrifices made by veterans and the enduring impact of war on families.
As the world remembers Stirm, his legacy as a symbol of resilience, hope, and the complexities of war will continue to resonate. The family photo remains a cherished piece of history, a testament to the joy of reunion and the pain of separation.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the legacy of Robert Stirm, a true American hero.
