05/15/2026
Just got a copy of local author Barbara Powers Wyatt’s book WE CAME HOME - THE FIRSTHAND STORIES OF VIETNAM POWS
In 1973, American prisoners of war (POWs) were released from the terrible prisons of North Vietnam. How did the men survive the years of solitary confinement and the brutal torture that was all too common? After their return through the U.S. military's Operation Homecoming, the POWs shared their individual stories in letters to the American people. These letters shed light on their faith in God and love of family and country as well as their commitment to America and its freedoms. They also tell of their unique communication system and their unshakable sense of humor, which was critical to their survival. With gut-wrenching honesty and raw emotion, the POWs even describe the horrors of their encounters with the cruel guards. These men returned home with honor; they are our heroes.�
The compiler of this book, who is over ninety years old, pulled together this patriotic project as a labor of love for future generations so they will know of the sacrifices these POWs were willing to make for this great country. With introductory letters from Bob Hope and Ronald Reagan, the 50th anniversary edition of We Came Home, including updates from the first 1977 edition, is a must-read for every American.
Barbara Powers Wyatt was born in Salem, New Jersey, where she attended Salem public schools. In 1953, she graduated from Clarke Conservatory of Music and went on to teach music in her hometown.
Two years later, in pursuit of something bigger than small town life, she began a new profession as an airline stewardess with Trans World Airlines (TWA). After just three months, she met her future husband, Captain Frederic Wyatt, USNR, and together they built a family that included three sons. They would also work together in executive search, in politics, and with the military, all while teaching throughout Los Angeles County. In 1980, she served as part of the Reagan Administration for both of his terms. In one of their many endeavors together, she and her husband created and compiled the book We Came Home: POWs of Vietnam. To honor the POWs, she has updated their stories for the 50th anniversary of their homecoming. She currently lives in Las Vegas where she spends time writing and enjoying time with her family.
If this is something you know someone would be interested in and they would like to review the book - ask them to come into The Coffee Press and let us know. We’ll arrange for them to meet her afterwards as well.
Remember our Silent Book Club & Writing Groups are still running at The Coffee Press, check out our website for details and come & join us 📖 ✍️
