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Today in History: "Slava Veder's 'Burst of Joy' Captures Vietnam War's End"

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On March 17, 1973, Slava Veder captured the iconic photograph "Burst of Joy," depicting Lieutenant Colonel Robert L. Stirm reuniting with his family after five years as a POW in North Vietnam. This Pulitzer Prize-winning image became a powerful symbol of the emotional aftermath of the Vietnam War and marked a significant moment in U.S. history.

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Story summary

On March 17, 1973, Slava Veder captured the iconic photograph "Burst of Joy," depicting Lieutenant Colonel Robert L. Stirm reuniting with his family after five years as a POW in North Vietnam. This Pulitzer Prize-winning image became a powerful symbol of the emotional aftermath of the Vietnam War and marked a significant moment in U.S. history.