Des Moines, Iowa — A man who served more time than any other Iowan as a prisoner of war during the Vietnam War died this weekend. Naval aviator Larry Spencer was 82. Commander Spencer grew up in Earlham. He joined the Navy in 1963.

During a reconnaissance mission over North Vietnam, Spencer was captured. He spent nearly seven years as a prisoner.

Larry Spencer

During his Naval service, Commander Spencer was awarded many military honors including: two Silver Stars, Legion of Merit with Combat “V”, four Bronze Stars, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal with six strike flights, two Purple Hearts and the Prisoner of War Medal. He was a member and past officer of the Military Officers Assn. of America and Military Order of the Purple Heart.

Funeral services for Larry Spencer will be held next Tuesday at Lutheran Church of Hope in West Des Moines. Read his full obituary HERE.