Ep 1. Vietnam POWs: McCain & Brace

During the Vietnam War, John McCain and Ernie Brace were American Navy pilots shot down and taken captive by North Vietnamese soldiers. In Locked Up Abroad season 7 episode 1, we follow their experience as prisoners of war and their daring escape attempts.

Through interviews with fellow prisoners of war and reenactments, we see the grim reality of their captivity. They were subjected to brutal torture and constant interrogation, their only reprieve coming in the form of occasional letters from loved ones.

Despite the horrific conditions, McCain and Brace never lost hope. They communicated through tapping on the walls of their cells, creating their own secret code to relay information and lift each other's spirits. They even began to plan their escape.

The first attempt was a daring scheme involving Brace impersonating a Vietnamese soldier and leading McCain, disguised as a civilian, out of the prison. Although they made it out of the prison, they were quickly captured by the Viet Cong and taken to a different location.

Their second attempt involved a grueling 850-mile march through the jungle, using stolen maps and a compass. They endured starvation and harsh terrain, while also avoiding enemy soldiers who were hot on their trail. After weeks of travelling, they finally made it to a safe zone.

The episode also explores the aftermath of their escape and the impact it had on their lives. Many people, including some of their fellow prisoners of war, were angered by their escape because they believed it would lead to further punishment for the other prisoners. But McCain and Brace were willing to risk it all for freedom and refused to apologize for their actions.

The Vietnam POWs: McCain & Brace episode of Locked Up Abroad is a powerful reminder of the courage and resilience of those who suffer through captivity and the lengths they will go to regain their freedom.