'Lincoln and the Fighter Pilot?’
Gen. John Borling, poet and POW, to speak at Lincoln Presidential Library on Sept. 22
 

[September 16, 2016]  SPRINGFIELD – John Borling knows both the highs and lows of life. He was a fighter pilot, held key commands in the Air Force and retired as a major general. He also endured years of torture and isolation as a prisoner of war during the Vietnam War.

Borling will share his perspectives on life and leadership during an appearance Sept. 22 at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.

He’ll reflect on his six and a half years as a POW, while also sharing some of the poetry he composed during his time in solitary confinement. Other career highlights included command of the famed Hat in the Ring Squadron, a year as a White House Fellow and several years with the Strategic Air Command.

The free event begins at 6 p.m. with Borling signing copies of his new book, “Taps on the Wall: Poems from the Hanoi Hilton.” He’ll begin speaking at 6:30 p.m.

Reserve your seat by visiting www.President Lincoln.illinois.gov and clicking on “special event reservations.”

“John Borling has led a remarkable life of service and sacrifice,” said Alan Lowe, executive director of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. “We’re excited to hear his observations and the poetry that sprang from the pain he endured.”

Borling calls his presentation “Lincoln and the Fighter Pilot?” It touches on leadership, sacrifice, military service and poetry – all of which were of keen interest to Lincoln.

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, a division of the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency, is dedicated to telling the story of America’s 16th president through old-fashioned scholarship and modern technology.

The library holds an unparalleled collection of Lincoln books, documents, photographs, artifacts and art, as well as some 12 million items pertaining to all aspects of Illinois history. The museum uses traditional exhibits, eye-catching special effects and innovative story-telling techniques to educate visitors.

[Chris Wills]