Captain Brian Dunstan Woods USN, ret.

1932 - 2015

Captain Brian Dunstan Woods USN, ret. obituary, 1932-2015, Coronado, CA

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Brian Woods USN, ret. Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Sep. 21, 2015.

Brian Woods was born on March 23, 1932, in Coco Solo, Panama. He enlisted in the U.S. Naval Reserve on May 13, 1950, and served on active duty as an Aviation Ordanceman with VS-661 from July 18, 1951 to June 29, 1952, with part of this service at the U.S. Naval Academy Prep School at Bainbridge, Maryland. Woods entered the U.S. Naval Academy in June 1952, left the academy in March 1953, and then attended the University of California at Los Angeles from March 1953 to December 1955. He entered the Aviation Cadet Program of the U.S. Navy in December 1955, and was commissioned an Ensign and designated a Naval Aviator on February 2, 1957. Woods served at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland, from 1957 to 1959, and then attended F9F-8 Cougar Fleet Replacement Training at NAS Miramar, California, before serving as an FJ-4B Fury pilot with VA-146 at NAS Miramar and aboard the aircraft carriers USS Lexington (CV-16) and USS Oriskany (CV-34) from 1960 to 1962. LT Woods served as an instructor pilot with VT-9 at NAS Meridian, Mississippi, from 1962 to May 1965, and then attended Carrier Air Traffic Control Center Training at NAS Glynco, Georgia, from May to July 1965. He served as assistant air operations officer aboard the aircraft carrier USS Midway (CVA-41) from July 1965 to June 1966, and then as air operations officer aboard the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown (CVS-10) from July 1966 to March 1967. LCDR Woods next attended A-7 Corsair II Replacement Air Group Training with VA-122 at NAS Lemoore, California, before serving as an A-7 pilot with VA-97 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Constellation (CV-64) from June 1967 until he was forced to eject over North Vietnam and was taken as a Prisoner of War on September 18, 1968. After spending 1,609 days in captivity, CDR Woods was released during Operation Homecoming on February 12, 1973. He was briefly hospitalized at the Naval Hospital in San Diego, California, before attending refresher flight training and then Replacement Air Group Training at NAS Lemoore, in the A-4 Skyhawk and the A-7. CDR Woods served as commanding officer of VA-195 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63) from May 1974 to June 1975, and then attended Naval War College at Newport, Rhode Island, from July 1975 to July 1976. His next assignment was as air operations officer aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ranger (CV-61) from September 1976 to February 1977, and then as operations officer aboard the aircraft carrier USS Midway (CV-41) from March 1977 to May 1978. Capt Woods served on the faculty staff of the Naval War College from June 1978 to January 1979, followed by service as commanding officer of the fleet oiler USS Ashtabula (AO-51) from July 1979 to January 1981. His next assignment was as Tomahawk Cruise Missile Branch Chief for the Commander-in-Chief, Pacific Fleet, from January to June 1981, and then as Head of the Carrier Acquisition Programs Coordination Branch on the Staff of the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Air Warfare at the Pentagon from July 1981 until his retirement from the Navy on October 31, 1983. Brian Woods died on September 16, 2015.

His Legion of Merit w/Valor Citation reads

For exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding service as a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam from September 1968 to February 1973. By his diligent efforts, exceptional leadership, devotion and loyalty to the United States, and under the most adverse conditions, he resisted all attempts by the North Vietnamese to use him in causes detrimental to the United States. While in daily contact with the North Vietnamese guards and officers, he performed duties in staff positions, maintaining good order and discipline among the prisoners. Under constant harassment from their captors, and due to the frustrations of the prisoners during their long internment, many difficult situations arose, requiring perseverance, endurance and ingenuity. Using his extraordinary courage, resourcefulness, and sound judgment, he reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Naval Service and the United States Armed Forces.

The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.

Brian is survived by his sister Barbara Walker of Coronado California, sons Christopher and Michael Woods of Charlottesville and Richmond Virginia, daughters Cathleen Thompson and Shannon Woods of Charleston South Carolina and San Diego California, eight grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.

The Navy Relief Society would be appropriate for any remembrances.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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August 7, 2021

Family

Mike Woods

I ask you to visit from time to time, I´ll see a hawk after hearing it first. Love you Dad.

August 6, 2021

Friend

Daniel Williams

Rest In Peace Captain Woods and thank you for your service sir. My condolences to his family. Chris,Mike,Cathy, Shannon, and his sister.

January 17, 2017

Shannon Woods

Dear Dad,

There is such a void without you here.

I watched a documentary on Vietnam yesterday.
I imagined what it must have been like for your life to stand still for five years, while those not at war lived out theirs. How the struggles in each minute, must have felt like hours. The internal strength you must have possesed to survive the unimaginable. The selflessness to nurse a dying soldier, imprisoned with you, back to health while you yourself needed help.
Under the worst of circumstances, you were a hero.
Though you were Superman, you were also human, and you hurt too.
and though I understand this, I likely will never fully know the scope of such suffering. Because you fought so I wouldn't have to.
Thank you Dad.

They showed film of pilots like yourself stepping back onto US soil for the first time since captivity. Some kissed the ground. Some lifted up their their loved ones. Open arms and tears everywhere. I cried as if I was already born and there to jump in your arms.
I wanted to. I missed you terribly and would have reached right through the TV screen and given you that hug if it was possible!
I miss you every day.

I can't begin to imagine what you must have been going through that day or what my mom and siblings who waited and prayed for you must have felt.

I look at my two favorite pictures of us all the time. One showing both of us all dressed up for the Navy Ball. (You of course looking dapper as ever.)
The other, a little girl being carried in your arms while holding both you and a pink stuffed mouse. All smiles.

We had and have our bond.
I will forever be in debt to you for letting me in close. For your love. For entrusting so much with me. I am grateful everyday for you and the time we had. Because of you, I am a better person.
Thank you for everything.
I love you Dad.
I miss you Dad.
I hope you now have peace.

Shannon

Posted by Shannon Woods

January 16, 2017

Mike Woods

Preparing my new house thanks to you. Each step of its process is a reminder of you. The work involved, attention to detail and the chance to do it right the first time. My wife Allison said a thank you to you as we were preparing to move in... Your memory will be alive in this house. I share each task with you in my heart. I love you and thank you deeply

August 13, 2016

Don Chinery LCDR (LDO) USN Ret.

Rest in Peace Skipper
Proud to have been your Ship's Bos'n

June 11, 2016

Ann Schulte

My deepest condolences to your family. I was a college student at the time of the Vietnam War and purchased a bracelet with your father's name on it. I often wondered what ever happened to CDR Brian Woods and after so many years I googled his name and found this site. What a wonderful man he was and so dedicated to his country. We owe so much to him for defending our country. I still have the bracelet that I bought so many years ago. If you would like to have it I would be more than happy to send it to your family. I am enclosing a picture of it and my email address if you would like it sent to you. Please know how deeply grateful I am for his service to our country.
email is : [email protected]

Posted by Ann Schulte

April 4, 2016

Sherry Robinson

In searching the internet I found this obit. I never met the man but his name is engraved in my heart forever. It was back during the Vietnam war that I purchased one of the copper bracelets for sale during that time with a POW's name on it. Cmd Brian D. Woods USN it showed when I opened the package. My father's name was Bryan and he had been in the USN during WWII and served on the USS Enterprise so I was was pleased to have received a Navy man to pray for. I wore his name proudly and the bracelet finally removed when I seen Cmd Woods on TV that Feb day in 1973. One of the first to come off that plane as I remember. I felt so happy for him and his wife and children. I sent him a letter during his stay in the hoepital in San Diego and he replied. I still have that letter tucked away. He thanked me for never forgetting him and the others and for my support during the war. I always wondered about him as the years have passed by what become of him. It did not surprise me when I read this tribute to him how after his POW experience instead of giving up on a military career he stayed with it and continued to serve our country. I wish I could of met him in person to have shaken his hand, give him a hug and thank him in person for his outstanding service to our great country. May his children know what an impact he made on my life, a man I never met and barely knew. RIP as you soar with the Eagles.
Sincerely, Sherry Robinson

January 19, 2016

Danielle W. Anderson

Brian Woods was my Godfather and my Dad's (Timothy L. J. Woods) uncle. Unlike so many of you I did not really get a chance to know him. To me he was a bigger then life hero - a pilot, POW and a man who held the respect of all who knew him.

However I do have unique story about "Uncle" Brian. In 1990 I was getting married and we wanted to have a Celtic theme complete with the whole nine yards of kilts. My then fiancé, Garth Anderson was in boot camp in San Diego. On one of his days off he road his bike to Coronado and into a store that sold Celtic crystal, artwork, music and specialty items. Garth spoke to the proprietor of the shop who told him that the kilts would have been prohibitive for a sailor in boot camp. So they got to talking and Garth mentioned that he had noticed all the Woods related pieces and that he was marrying a Woods back in North Carolina. The proprietor told him his last name was Woods, then said something like funny I have a God-daughter in North Carolina named Danielle Woods who is getting married. Garth said I am marrying a Danielle Woods. Needless to say the proprietor was my Godfather Brian Dunstan Woods. So he was looking after me through a touch of fate.

Thank you Uncle Brian, I wish knew you better but I was glad to at least know you.

Love Danielle

October 28, 2015

Barbara Walker

Brian,
I remember the day you were born at home. You LOUDLY announced your arrival to the rest of the world. Little did I know then that I'd be depending on you throughout my life. It was reassuring to know you were there for me.
It's been a long journey that you have traveled well and honorably. I want you to know I could not be prouder of you.
You will always have my everlasting love. I'll miss you "Little Brother".
Your favorite (and only) sister,
Barbara

October 13, 2015

David Thompson

I miss and love my Grandpa. I'm still blown away by all that he accomplished and how he never failed to do what was right no matter how hard it was. He was tortured for 5 years straight and came back with even more fervor finishing a 33 year career in the navy at the pentagon. Hes a true hero and I will always think about his courage and discipline before I ever take the easy way out in anything. I'm eternally grateful for the family that he gave me. My daughter, Avianca Thompson, was born this year at 1am on his birthday (march 23rd) well after her due date (march 19th) I remember talking to him on the phone and delivering the good news. Shannon told me that he raised his hands in excitement. Because he provided my mom, I now have this precious angel born on his birthday. I'm glad that he enjoyed that moment before he passed. I'm very sad that we lost one of the greatest men to walk the earth.

October 12, 2015

Capt Phil Johnson USN

I knew Brian in our first Squadron VA-146 flying the FJ-4B Fury. Brian, Bob Jones and I shared a 3 man stateroom in USS Oriskany CVA-34. We miss our good friend and fellow Naval Officer My Condolences for Brian,s Family.

October 8, 2015

Mic Hamilton (Rocket 18)

I was a nearly newly minted Ensign when I reported to VA-97 and LCDR Woods was a genuine LCDR...which seemed he was right up there with God (as a lowly Ensign I'd never dare call him "Bad Dog")....affter occasional flights as his wingman I realized what a great pilot he was. Over the years I've met some great pilots and officers and a few, ummmm, not so great. Bad Dog was one of those people I truly admired and respected...a professional who wanted JO's to do their best....when he doled out some praise you knew you'd earned it...a great example of all an officer and pilot in the Navy should be.

October 4, 2015

Jeanette Curran

Sincere condolences!
I have never forgotten the day that Capt. Woods came to the Carmelite Monastery from Navy hospital to witness Paula's ceremony as a member of the Secular Community. He was so thin!
We lost track of them when they moved away but I have thought of them so often over the years. We lost a dear friend a week ago and in looking for his obituary I came across Capt. Woods

May God bless and console the family as we give thanks for his sacrifice and service to our country!

October 3, 2015

Paula Woods

Wishing you Eternal Peace, Fair Winds and Following Seas.

Paula

October 2, 2015

Larry Friese

Posted by Larry Friese

October 2, 2015

Karen Myer

I have memories of playing chess with my Uncle Brian when I was a teenager. He was always really nice to me and I was very fond of him.

October 2, 2015

Steve Myer

Uncle Brian - My earliest memories were of wearing a bracelet for you while you were a POW and I remember when you returned and how happy your family was to have you back. I remember eating peanut butter and fluff sandwiches with my cousins one time when we were visiting - it was the first time I ever had fluff and thought it was awesome. I can remember visiting latter as a teenager and getting into a little trouble with your kids, just for the record I am pretty sure I was the bad influence :-) My last memory was being at your birthday celebration and witnessing the love and commitment that your family and friends have for you. God bless you now that you are at peace and free from any suffering you had to endure.

October 2, 2015

Shannon Woods

I am blessed to have spent so much time with my dad in his twilight years. One of "our things" was the song "I'm number one" from a movie we saw together called "Muppets Most Wanted".
Sometimes when I'd assert myself a bit, he would remind me of my place with a smile and a nod after which he would sing: "I'm number one..." .To which I'd sigh and sing back the song's reply "I'm number two."
We'd sing a verse or so of the song together and this would always end by him reciting the line...
"One day you'll get your chance, but in the mean time...You got to dance monkey dance!"
Our heads seemed to fill up with the sound of soaring Jazz trumpets as I...would of course dance!
Dance like the wind. Like my life depended on it. Some silly jig... Elbows out...Feet-a-tappin'. Smile on my face. Just the way he liked it.
During which he'd repeat: "Dance monkey dance!"
Trumpets still-a-going...
...Then I'd do whatever he asked. :)
I love you dad and SMILE. This monkey is still dancing.

Posted by Shannon Woods

October 2, 2015

George Myer

Old fighter pilots never die, they just fly into the horizon. Keep your eyes on your instruments, Brian.

From your Brother-in-Law, Best Man and VA-146 Squadron Mate.

October 2, 2015

George Myer

Old fighter pilots never die, they just fly into the horizon. Keep your eyes on your instruments, Brian.

From:
your Brother-in-Law, Best Man and VA-146 squadron mate.

October 2, 2015

Fair Winds and Following Seas as you join the Squadron in the Sky.

October 2, 2015

Tom Sudberry

I was Bad Dog's wingman in Va-97. We flew almost 30 combat missions together before he was shot down over the Ha Tinh province in North Vietnam on September 18, 1968. He was launched as a spare on a large Alpha Strike as was the last guy to roll in on the target. He was hit just as he released his weapons and barely ejected in time for his chute to open. His immediate capture forced him to destroy his survival radio before he could send a Mayday to the strike group. Since he and his chute were quickly pulled under a tree, there was no way to know if he survived. Fortunately, two days later, radio Hanoi broadcast that a Navy pilot had been shot down and captured over Ha Tinh...our first indication that Bad Dog might be alive.
His wonderful wife, Paula, became a very strong voice in the POW wives movement and we were finally reunited in February, 1973 when BD and the rest of the prisoners returned to San Diego.
It's been a pleasure getting to know his children, and especially his daughter, Shannon, who was born after his return from Vietnam. Blessings to them all.

Tom "Suds" Sudberry

October 2, 2015

Chris Woods

One memory I'd like to share about Dad is that he had a Mickey Mouse watch that he wore with his full dress uniform, medals and all. He just hoped, waited, and PRAYED that someone higher ranked would ask him what time it was, so he could pull up his sleeve and answer "Let's see Mickey's big hand is on the one..."

Chris Woods

October 2, 2015

Aileen Woods Talley

Brian you were the big brother I didn't have and although I didn't always follow your "suggestions" there is no doubt you were a star while I stumbled around in my early college days. My best memory though was tearing up the rural roads around Fredericksburg to see if the speedometer on your new sports car could actually measure speeds over 102mph...it could! I also remember you escorting me and Polly on a "triple date" to a big dance function in Pensacola. What a time we all had! I will miss you very much and will hold memories close.

October 2, 2015

Lillian Apgar

I'm so glad to call you my grandpa. You are a true hero. You are also an inspiration. One of a kind for sure. But most of all you are my grandpa. Even though we were far apart you were always close to my heart. When I would talk to you on the phone I could always feel the warmth in your voice and I would have a big smile on my face just like I know you do now looking down on all of us. I love you grandpa

October 1, 2015

Dave VandenBerg

From a junior officer VA-97 squadron mate...currently a physician...
"When we joined the squadron as J.O.'s (Junior Officers), we were all scared to death of Bad Dog. He was senior and would frequently have J.O.'s for lunch...and...you know...the funny thing about it is that...we are STILL scared of him!"
V-Berg

October 1, 2015

Shannon Woods

Dad, I still have your pen. I will put it back in the drawer for you.
Your requests are fulfilled. Your loose ends tied. You may freely fly to your next destination in peace.
I will continue to honor you by living a life full of the lessons and examples you have taught me. I remain eternally grateful for the time that we had together and the bond we shared.
With all the love in my heart, I will miss you.
Your daughter, and #2 always,

Shannon Woods

October 1, 2015

Ray Waddell

CAPT Woods...Just a typical Bruin Boy...tall, handsome, brilliant...did I mention good looking? I get to live in the land of the free because of you: The Brave. Tailwinds, Mad Dog.

Very Respectfully,

Ray "Wadds" Waddell
CAPT, USN, Ret.
UCLA '71
VA-105, 174, 203

October 1, 2015

Mike Woods

Posted by Mike Woods

October 1, 2015

Mike Woods

Posted by Mike Woods

October 1, 2015

Mike Woods

Posted by Mike Woods

October 1, 2015

Mike Woods

Posted by Mike Woods

October 1, 2015

Posted by

October 1, 2015

Mike Woods

When I was small you were in 'Nam. Mom kept you very much alive for Cathy, Chris, and I. We prayed every night for your return. She said you were in Gods' hands,this I believed with my entire soul. When you were repatriated, I knew she was right. She taught me faith. When you returned you showed me intangibles too. Things like; determination, tenacity, courage, respect, honor, pride, duty, and attention to detail. You brought a level of care to all you were involved in, that did not escape me. I saw your father in you and am thankful to have had a relationship with him too. I saw how you honored your father and mother. That did not escape me. You are a hero to me, not just because of your military career but, for the man you were after 'Nam, throughout your career, and after. You taught me to put duty to my loved ones above self. You showed me how to attack problems. Head on and directly. As a Dad I learned a lot of my style from your Dad... Now you are not here, I am glad I got to talk to you and say goodbye. I'm glad you were proud of me.Thank you for the gifts of; humor, stick-to-it-ness, and hope.Thank you for teaching me the best you could. You were a great man, I am thankful to God to have been able to know you. I remember praying every night for your safe return. I know God brought you back to me then, I know he's got you now. Thank you God, I love you Dad

October 1, 2015

Phillip Thompson

"The best memory I have of my Grandpa is from around 1993 when my family and I stayed with him in Coronado until Mom could get her own place.
Grandpa made us eat spinach for breakfast and afterwards he would inspect the beds to make sure they were made properly.
As a kid, it seemed like a lot of pressure. As an adult I try to eat healthy greens and make my bed without question every day.
Thank you Grandpa."

October 1, 2015

Brad Smith

Rest in peace Bad Dog, my primary basic jet instructor.

September 30, 2015

Spike Nasmyth

See you later Bad Dog, Spike

September 30, 2015

Dick Francis

Rest in peace, Brian.

Check 6, Dick
POW 1972-1973

September 30, 2015

Leroy Stutz

A true warrior, a good friend, and a great cell mate. Even if he was a navy guy. Truly missed by all of us.

September 30, 2015

Mike Brazelton

I knew Brian as a compatriot when we were in a North Vietnam prison. I knew him as a friend after we were repatriated. He was a good friend. He was a gentle man.

September 30, 2015

Jack Blauvelt

Woody & I served together in VA146 Blue Diamonds in 1960 at NAS Miramar &remained in touch ever since.I feel honored that he served as my Best Man at my wedding at NAS North Island.He was known as Mr. Navy & is sorely missed by all who had the good fortune to know him.An eagle flies West God Speed.

September 30, 2015

Cathleen Thompson

Dear Father,
Thank you for being my hero and dad. You fought to the death, with courage and strength.
The torch will be passed on to our family for generations.
Every time I see the American flag, I will think of you.
You are a true American fighter where second place is not an option.
I love you Daddy.

September 29, 2015

On behalf of all NAMPOWs Joe Milligan

"Brian, you will be missed and remembered by your band-of-brothers".

September 29, 2015

Capt. Richard Stratton USN (Ret.)

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7
We NavCads were a magnificent lot; and Brian was one of the best.
The Beak - Hoa Lo, Hanoi NVN 1967-1973

September 29, 2015

Pat Gowen

I met him towards the end of his life. When I came back from Afghanistan and others were telling me that I needed help... He listened to me. He just let me into his home... and listened to me. He helped people till the end. Till the VERY end.

September 29, 2015

Leroy Urie

He was a great friend. I honored his name and appreciated all he did.

September 29, 2015

Col. Rex Gaede

He was a great man.

September 29, 2015

Lou Villegas

He is a national treasure. One of our greatest war heroes.

September 29, 2015

Dale Osborne

Woody had his hands full taking care of me. He told me that he was no caretaker or nurse maid but bless his heart he did his best and got the job done. Conversaations were all one way for several weeks until I was strong enough to start muttering a few words.Had I not had his help I would not have made it.

September 29, 2015

Pete Ogle

Brian was a part of my life as a Naval Aviator and also in retirement after
the Navy. Joanie and I lived in Coronado Cays for four and a half years
during which time we were very close to Brian and even after we moved to
Shaver Lake we continued to visit him.
In recent visits and discussing the past with Brian we realized we both were
at Bairn Field in October 1956, but we didn't know each other because we
were in different flights. We both flew the SNJ going through air to air
gunnery with .50 caliber machine guns shooting at targets towed over the
Gulf of Mexico. That was fun being a Naval Aviation Cadet! Carrier Field
Landings Practice followed by the real thing once we got to the carrier. We
both carrier qualified with 6 landings and went on to advanced training at
different locations.
Fast forward ... I met Brian face to face in VA -122. On June first 1967 we
established a new A-7 Squadron... VA-97 Warhawks, many of whom are
here today. And on that cruise...BY DARN Brian and I became roommates.
We all had small refrigators in our staterooms which we bought for $50.
Only one problem developed with Brian while drinking beer. He didn't want
to go to the head so he used our common sink. I really didn't care...didn;t
nag... However, after he retuned from being shot down I did remind him on
one occasion...maybe more than once... that it was my airplane he left in
Vietnam NK-507.
His 80th birthday party was a great success...remembered by many of us
and was a wonderful tribute to his love for his family. He will be missed.
Peter and Joanie Ogle

September 26, 2015

Robert F Jones

It was an honor to serve in VA 146 for one year with Brian.
Phil Johnson, Brian and I shared a stateroom on our WestPac cruise on USS Oriskany in 1960. Brian was always a gentleman, an outstanding aviator and a dedicated Naval Officer, a good man. Brian, may you have clear weather and tailwinds on your journey West.

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