In partnership with the Veterans Coordination Commission, we are pleased to present the June, 2006 Veteran of the Month – Thomas J. Parson.

Thomas is a native of Fiatt, Illinois and entered the US Air Force in 1954. He served as an Aircraft Radio Mechanic and as an Electronic Technician with the Jupiter, Atlas “D” and “E” Missiles and Minuteman I, II and III Missile systems. Thomas spent from July, 1972 until August of 1973 as a Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge of a small missile shop with the 432nd Tactical Fighter Wing at Udorn, RTAFB, Thailand. While in Thailand, he helped activate the Air to Ground Television Guided Missile System. During Linebacker I in December 1972, he assisted in the buildup of over 500 air-to-air missile systems as well as the buildup of Laser Guidance Systems for Laser Guided Bombs.

Tom’s decorations include: the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, Small Arms Expert Marksman Ribbon, USAF NCO PME Graduate Ribbon, AF Longevity Service Ribbon with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters, Good Conduct Medal with 3 Bronze Loops, AF Good Conduct Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, AF Outstanding Unit Award with “V” Device, AF Commendation Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters and the Meritorious Service Medal.

Tom has continued to serve his county and community. He is a life member of VFW Post 1273, served as Post Commander in 1987-1990, Quartermaster from 2003-2005 and is a member of the VFW Post Board of Directors, Honor Guard and is editor of the Post Newsletter. Tom was the VFW District 10 Commander in 1990-91 and is currently District Quartermaster. He is active with American Legion Post 22, life member of DAV Chapter 3, life member of the Air Force Sergeants Association Chapter 951, life member of the Association of Air Force Missilers and a member of AARP. Tom volunteers many hours visiting the veterans at the State Veterans Home and at Fr. Meade. He calls bingo for the American Legion Post 22 Auxiliary at least two times a month in addition to helping neighbors and veterans with chores they can no longer do.

Tom met his wife Lori while stationed at Lincoln AFB, Nebraska and they have been married for fifty years.