Columbia VA staff honors former POW and Vietnam War Hero Wallace “Moe” Newcomb
By James Branch, Acting Public Affairs Officer
The Columbia VA Health Care System proudly welcomed U.S. Air Force Veteran and former Prisoner of War Wallace “Moe” Newcomb during a recent visit to the Wm. Jennings Bryan Dorn VA Medical Center, where staff gathered to honor his service and hear his incredible story of resilience and sacrifice.
A native of Easton, Pennsylvania, Newcomb now resides in South Carolina with his wife, Janet. Once an avid skier, he says he enjoys the flexibility his current location offers—being just a short drive from either the mountains or the beach. “It’s the best of both worlds,” Newcomb said with a smile.
A decorated Vietnam Veteran, Newcomb was shot down over North Vietnam on August 3, 1967, while flying a mission out of Korat Air Base in Thailand. His F-105 bomber took heavy fire as he attempted to strike a North Vietnamese railroad, forcing him to eject. He suffered a broken leg and was captured, spending the next six years imprisoned at the infamous Hanoi Hilton.
Confined daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and given only two meals a day, Newcomb’s weight dropped to just 110 pounds. Yet, he credits the camaraderie of his fellow U.S. service members for helping him endure the ordeal. “We kept each other going,” he said. “It’s that shared strength that got us through.”
He was finally released on March 14, 1973, and flown to Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines, marking the end of a harrowing chapter in his life.
Newcomb stopped by Dorn VA to personally thank the staff for their recent help resolving an administrative issue unrelated to VA. “I couldn’t imagine receiving my health care from anywhere else,” he said. “Everyone here goes above and beyond.”
“Trust is the foundation of all effective relationships,” said David Brett Vess, Columbia VA Acting Executive Director. “Our primary mission is to serve Veterans and uphold the integrity of the trust placed in us. Mr. Newcomb's confidence in our team exemplifies the dedication and competence demonstrated by our health care professionals.”
Among his military honors are the Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, and Prisoner of War Medal—each a testament to his bravery and dedication.
“It is our privilege to put Veterans in the center of everything we do,” Vess said. “Trust isn’t just a goal—it’s our top priority. We need ‘Moe trust for our Veterans.”
Newcomb’s story is an incredible reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the unwavering commitment of those who wear the uniform.