While searching for a downed F-105 pilot over the jungles of Vietnam, in September 1965, the combat search and rescue HH-43 helicopter piloted by Captain Thomas “Jerry” Curtis also was shot down.
He and two crew members were taken prisoner. For the next seven-plus years, the three were held captive by the North Vietnamese as prisoners of war in Hanoi Hilton and in other prisons. A fourth crew member also was taken prisoner and sent to a POW camp in Laos. But, in June, 1966, he was murdered during his effort to escape.
Curtis’ exploits, including periods in solitary confinement, facing starvation, and being tortured, have been chronicled in the book, Under the Cover of Light written by Carole Engle Avriett.
Both war hero and author will describe his wartime experiences and ability to survive at a gathering of the Military Officers Association of America Lake & Sumter Counties Chapter on Wednesday, Jan. 10, at 11:30 at the Eisenhower Recreation Center.
The public is invited to join chapter members but must make reservations for the $15 luncheon meeting by contacting Tim or Annette Balliett at (352) 728-2945 or taballiet@aol.com.
Afterward, Curtis and Avriett will participate in a book signing at Barnes & Noble at 2:30 p.m.
Curtis had retired from the Air Force as a colonel with more than 5,000 flying hours in single engine jets, multi-engine aircraft and helicopters. He earned several distinguished awards including the Air Force Cross, Silver Star and Legion of Merit.