Westley Thomas

U.S. Marine Corps
1965-1969
Vietnam 1966-1968

Mr. Westley Thomas was born in the Bronx and raised on Staten Island's North Shore in the Stapleton/New Brighton/ West Brighton community. A product of the North Shore, he graduated from P. S. 18 and Port Richmond High School before enlisting in the United States Marine Corps.

He served two tours with the First Marine Airwing in Vietnam from 1966-1968 and received the following military service awards: A Letter of Appreciation; Presidential Unit Citation; National Defense Service Medal; Vietnam Service Medal with Three Bronze Stars; Vietnam Campaign Medal with 60 device; Vietnam Gallantry Cross/with Palm; and (2) Rifle Shooting Badges, Expert and Marksman and Honorably discharged as a Sgt. E5.

In 1975, he joined the U. S. Marine Corps Reserves, serving with the 6th Communication Battalion at the Brooklyn Navy Yard until 1977. His service is honored on Building 92's History Museum Tribute Wall.

After his military service, Mr. Thomas dedicated over two decades to the New York City Transit Authority, beginning as a track worker and retired as a Subway Track Maintenance Supervisor. While working full-time for the City of New York. He attended college, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Dramatic Arts from the College of Staten Island in 1980.

Today, Mr. Thomas is an accomplished author, playwright, poet, and actor. His book, A Hard Decision, explores themes of love, war, loss, and death. He is seen in interviews on Youtube and has a website: www.westleythomasbooks.com for his talents in playwriting and as an Author.

He continues to be a dedicated advocate for veterans, he is a Life Member of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 126 in Manhattan and the Sgt. Angel Mendez Marine Corps League Detachment 246 in Staten Island. In recognition of his life- long service to our nation, The City of New York and his Advocacy to our veterans, he was presented with a Proclamation from the City of New York present by former Councilmember Deborah Rose, and presented with an Honoree Certificate of Recognition by former New York State Senator Diane J. Savino and Awarded the Public Advocate Certificate for the City of New York by the former Hon. Letitia James, NYC Public Advocate.

Sponsored by Westley Thomas