The Daily Stoic Sid Stockdale On The Stoic Legacy Of His Father, Admiral James Stockdale
Sep 20, 2023
Sid Stockdale, speaker and author, shares powerful insights from his memoir about growing up as the son of Admiral James Stockdale, a POW during the Vietnam War. He reflects on his family's resilience, particularly his mother's strength, and the lessons of Stoicism his father imparted upon his return. The discussion touches on the challenges of military life, the emotional journey of coping with adversity, and the vital support military spouses provide. Sid emphasizes how these experiences shape personal and familial strength, grounded in the principles of Stoicism.
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Childhood in a Military Family
- Sid Stockdale recalls his father, a jet pilot, being deployed for eight months at a time.
- This was considered normal in their family, surrounded by other fighter pilot families.
James Stockdale as a Father
- James Stockdale enjoyed spending quality time with his children.
- He wrestled, played football, and played the piano with them, contrasting his intense demeanor during combat.
Yuma Territorial Prison Visit
- Before the Vietnam War, James Stockdale took his sons Sid and Jim on a trip to Yuma, Arizona.
- They visited the Yuma Territorial Prison, a gloomy experience that foreshadowed James Stockdale's future imprisonment.
