Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation Reintroduced to Honor Vietnam War POW Everett Alvarez, Jr. With the Congressional Gold Medal

Monterey, CA – Today, U.S. Reps. Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) and Pat Fallon (TX-04) along with Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) reintroduced the Everett Alvarez, Jr. Congressional Gold Medal Act to award Commander Everett Alvarez, Jr., the second-longest held Prisoner of War (POW) in U.S. history, Congress' highest honor. Rep. Panetta previously introduced the legislation last Congress. Commander Alvarez was born and raised in Salinas and is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) in Monterey, California.

On August 5, 1964, while flying Operation Pierce Arrow, Commander Alvarez's A-4 Skyhawk was shot down, and he became the first aviator captured in Vietnam. He spent eight years and six months in captivity or 3,113 days. Despite facing torture, isolation and starvation, Commander Alvarez encouraged and inspired fellow POWs to "Return with Honor," by not cooperating with the enemy, and remain loyal to the United States. Following his release and hospitalization, Commander Alvarez resumed his Naval service, graduating from NPS.

"In the face of severe mistreatment during his captivity in the Vietnam War, including torture and starvation, Commander Everett Alvarez, Jr. served, sacrificed, and set an example for fellow POWs, inspiring them to return home with honor," said Rep. Panetta. "I am proud to reintroduce this legislation with bipartisan support in the House and Senate to honor the heroism of Commander Alvarez and his effect on his military brethren as well as our nation. Through his bravery, sacrifices, and immense contributions to our country Commander Everett Alvarez, Jr. has demonstrated what it means to be a patriot, and it is only fitting that Congress acknowledge his exemplary life with the Congressional Gold Medal."

"Commander Everett Alvarez, Jr. is a true testament to the resiliency of the American spirit," said Rep. Fallon. "He dedicated his life to selfless service while overcoming insurmountable odds. I am honored to be part of this effort and look forward to passing this legislation to award him the Congressional Gold Medal."

"Commander Alvarez is an American hero and remains a source of hope and encouragement for the other Prisoners of War during his time in Vietnam," said Senator Padilla. "Commander Alvarez's unwavering courage and bravery in the face of cruel torture and isolation deserves the highest recognition in Congress."

"Commander Everett Alvarez Jr. endured unspeakable horrors while fighting in the Vietnam War, and no amount of thanks will ever be enough. He is a true American patriot, dedicating his life to his country. I am proud to join Senator Padilla in honoring Commander Alvarez. He deserves a Congressional Gold Medal on behalf of our grateful nation," said Senator Lummis.

"I am humbled beyond belief by the introduction of this legislation to award me the Congressional Gold Medal," said Everett Alvarez. "There is no way I am able to express my profound appreciation for this recognition. However, I have to acknowledge, I accept this honor on behalf of those who have played an important role in my life, primarily my fellow former Vietnam POWs, my esteemed colleagues in the military, the government and business, and my family, particularly my wife, Tammy, who has encouraged me and has been my unconditional support throughout these years."

On June 30, 1980, Commander Alvarez retired from the Navy, completing a 20-year Naval career. Commander Alvarez went on to serve as Deputy Director of the Peace Corps, Deputy Administrator of the Veterans Administration, and on the Board of regents of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences.

Commander Alvarez has earned the Silver Star Medal, two Legions of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Bronze Star Medals, two Purple Hearts, and the Prisoner of War Medal.

The Congressional Gold Medal is bestowed by the United States Congress to honor individuals or groups for major achievements that have an impact on American history and culture. Congress has issued gold medals to honor recipients from the military since the American Revolution. The legislation must be passed by the House and the Senate and signed into law by the President for the Gold Medal to be awarded.

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