Former U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Robert Stirm, a Vietnam War veteran who became known for the iconic “Burst of Joy” photo capturing his emotional reunion with his family after being held as a prisoner of war, has passed away at the age of 83 in California.
Stirm’s death was confirmed by his daughter, Lori Stirm, who shared that her father passed away peacefully on April 19th, surrounded by his loved ones. She described him as a loving husband, father, and grandfather who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Born in San Francisco in 1933, Stirm joined the Air Force in 1955 and served for over 20 years. In 1967, he was deployed to Vietnam as a fighter pilot and was shot down over Hanoi on December 20th, 1972. He spent the next five years as a prisoner of war, enduring physical and psychological torture at the infamous “Hanoi Hilton” prison.
During his time as a POW, Stirm’s family back home in California never gave up hope for his safe return. His wife, Loretta, and their six children eagerly awaited his homecoming, and their reunion would become one of the most iconic moments of the war.
On March 17th, 1973, Stirm was released along with other American prisoners of war as part of the Paris Peace Accords. As he walked down the ramp of the plane, he was greeted by his family, including his wife and children, who were holding a banner that read “Welcome Home Daddy.” The emotional moment was captured by Associated Press photographer Slava Veder and became known as the “Burst of Joy” photo, which went on to win a Pulitzer Prize.
The photo captured the raw emotions of a family finally reunited after years of separation and became a symbol of hope and resilience for many Americans during a tumultuous time in the country’s history. It also brought attention to the sacrifices made by prisoners of war and their families, shedding light on the horrors of war and the strength of the human spirit.
After his release, Stirm continued to serve in the Air Force for another 14 years, retiring in 1987 as a Lieutenant Colonel. He then went on to work for the Department of Defense, dedicating his life to serving his country.
In 2003, Stirm and his family were invited to the White House by President George W. Bush to commemorate the 30th anniversary of their reunion. The “Burst of Joy” photo was displayed in the Oval Office, and Stirm was honored for his bravery and sacrifice.
Stirm’s legacy will live on through the iconic photo and the impact he had on the lives of those who knew him. He will be remembered as a hero, not only for his service to his country but also for the love and devotion he showed to his family.
His daughter, Lori, shared that her father’s passing has left a void in their family, but they take comfort in knowing that he is now reunited with his beloved wife, Loretta, who passed away in 2018.
Former U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Robert Stirm will always be remembered as a true American hero, whose courage, resilience, and love for his family will continue to inspire future generations. May he rest in peace.
