Leo K. Thorsness

Biography

Leo K. Thorsness was a U.S. Air Force pilot whose daring missions over Vietnam and refusal to leave injured comrades behind earned him the Medal of Honor and eternal admiration. He survived months as a prisoner of war, helping shape POW advocacy with the example of courage he gave to fellow captives and to the nation.

After retiring from active duty, Thorsness returned to public life in Washington state, serving in the legislature and remaining a tireless supporter of veterans and their families, and he was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery as a hero in war and peace.