(This interview was conducted in February of 2023. Captain Lavra has now turned 100 years old on May 2nd, 2026!)

Captain John Lavra always meets you with a handshake that would crush most men’s hands. Even at 96 years old his hand strength is still amazing!  The WWII, Korea, & Vietnam veteran is a naval aviator that served his country for 26 years before retiring in 1970.  Earlier this year I sat down with the Captain and as we talked about his career in the Navy I recorded the conversation. The following 18 minute video is the story of him bailing out of a flaming Skyraider behind enemy lines on October 20th, 1952, his survival on the ground with severe injuries, rescue, and recovery. The images accompanying the video are from Captain Lavra’s personal collection throughout his Navy career but are not in any particular order. 

On a personal note, I’ve known “Captain John” all of my life. He is married to my Dad’s cousin, and I was always excited when my family drove down from Ohio to his old home outside of Virginia Beach to visit.  A visit to Captain John and Marolyn’s meant that we’d be fishing, visiting the beach, eating wonderful food prepared by Marolyn, and hearing amazing stories of flying in the Navy. And a highlight was always Captain John showing off his "bar tricks" (that I thought were magic tricks) after dinner!  Captain John and Marolyn moved away from the beach years ago to rural Virginia and are very dear people.  I am happy to be able to share this story as told by him.