Former prisoner of war to speak at museum

Published Sept. 3, 2013
By Sarah Swan
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

DAYTON, Ohio -- Maj. Gen. (Ret.) John Borling will share his experiences as a prisoner of war, along with the poetry and prose he composed and memorized, during a special presentation at 1 p.m. on Sept. 13 at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force.

The highly-decorated fighter pilot served 37 years throughout the world in high-level command and staff positions. During the Southeast Asia War, he was incarcerated in Hanoi, Vietnam, for six and half years, where he mentally composed poetry/prose. He tapped his creations through thick walls to fellow POWs using a special, but forbidden, prison tap code to "make time an ally" and provide legacy for his wife in case he didn't survive. His story is also published in his new book, "Taps on the Walls: Poems from the Hanoi Hilton."

During his presentation, Borling will speak about how and why poetry sustained him through his POW experience and its relevance today; his commitment to duty and liberty, freedom and service; his life and service in the United States Air Force and private sector; and what his future holds.

For more information or handicapped seating arrangements during the lecture, contact the museum's Special Events Division at (937) 255-1743. Filming or videotaping the lecture is prohibited.

The National Museum of the United States Air Force is located on Springfield Street, six miles northeast of downtown Dayton. It is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day). Admission and parking are free. For more information about the museum, visit www.nationalmuseum.af.mil.

NOTE TO PUBLIC: For more information, please contact the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force at (937) 255-1743.

NOTE TO MEDIA: For more information, please contact Sarah Swan at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force Public Affairs Division at (937) 255-1283.

Screening at Entrance
All visitors may be screened with a metal detector upon entry. In addition all bags are subject to search and may be placed through an X-Ray machine. Weapons are not permitted including pocket knives and firearms, to include conceal carry and other dangerous weapons.
Prohibited Items
Prohibited Items:
- Firearms*
- Knives
- Box cutters
- Food and Soda Drinks
- Alcohol
- Coolers

* Firearms, to include conceal carry and other dangerous weapons, are specifically prohibited in Federal facilities in accordance with 18 USC §930 (c)

Permitted Items:
- Water bottles (clear, sealed bottle, up to 20 oz.)
- Purses
- Camera bags
- Diaper bags
- Strollers
- Service animals

Please note the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force is not responsible for items left in vehicles.
Click here for frequently asked questions regarding items permitted inside the museum.
Visitor Photography Notice
Notice: Visitors may be filmed, photographed or recorded by the U.S. Air Force for educational and promotional uses, including for posting on public websites and social media.
Individuals are permitted to take their own photographs or videos while touring the museum.

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