Michael T. Burns

By zthanson, 3 November, 2022
First Name
Michael
Middle Name
T.
Last Name
Burns
Birthdate
Hometown
Ft. Wayne, Indiana
Rank
Captain
Service Branch
Air Force
Date Captured
Date Repatriated
Pre Capture Image
Man in a decorated U.S. Air Force suit.
PreCapture Description

Mike Burns was commissioned a 2nd Lt through the Air Force ROTC program at De Paul University, Illinois, on July 15, 1966, and went on active duty beginning October 18, 1966. Lieutenant Burns next completed Undergraduate Pilot Training, and was awarded his pilot wings at Vance AFB, Oklahoma, in October 1967, followed by survival training, jungle survival school, and F-4 Phantom II Combat Crew Training between October 1967 and May 1968. Lieutenant Burns served as an F-4 Pilot Systems Operator with the 433rd Tactical Fighter Squadron of the 8th Tactical Fighter Wing at Ubon Royal Thai AFB, Thailand, from May 1968 until he was forced to eject over North Vietnam and was taken as a Prisoner of War while flying his 19th combat mission on July 5, 1968.

Post Release Image
Older male in a suit and tie holding a bracelet.
Post Release Description

Captain Burns was released during “Operation Homecoming” on March 14, 1973. He then received an Air Force Institute of Technology Assignment to Notre Dame University, Indiana, from January 1974 until he left active duty on March 31, 1974.

Honors, Citations, and Commendations
  • Legion of Merit
  • Distinguished Flying Cross
  • Bronze Star (2)
  • Prisoner of War Medal
Passed away before release
Post Release