Westley Thomas
U.S. Marine Corps
1965-1969
Vietnam 1966-1968
Mr. Thomas was born in the Bronx and raised on Staten Island's North Shore in the Stapelton, West Brighton, New Brighton community. He graduated from PS 18 and Port Richmond High School before enlisting in the United States Marine Corps in 1965.
He served two tours with the First Marine Air Wing in Vietnam from 1966-1968. December 24, 1966, Lance Corporal Thomas was a member of the first Marine Aircraft Wing's Contingency Reaction Force that responded to an airplane crash in a populated village, Hoa Vang District, Quang Nam Providence, Republic of Vietnam where 120 Vietnam Nationals were killed and 20 wounded.
April 22, 1967, Corporal Thomas was presented in formation, a Letter of Appreciation from Commanding General L.B. Robertshaw acknowledging his courage, devotion to duty, and professionalism. He received the following military service awards: Presidential Unit Citation; Navy Unit Citation; Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Vietnam Service Medal (w/3bronze stars); Vietnam Campaign Medal (w/60 device); Vietnam Gallantry Cross (w/palm); and two Rifle shooting Badges, Expert and Marksman and Meritorious Sergeant Promotion while in Vietnam and Honorably discharged on May 19, 1969 as a Sergeant E5. www.firstmawvns.com (Nam pics): Camp Utilities, Friendly Fire February 1967.
In 1975, he joined the U. S. Marine Corps Reserves with the 6th Communication Battalion, at the Brooklyn Navy Yard until 1977, his name is on Building 92's History Museum's Tribute Wall.
After his military service, Mr. Thomas dedicated 28 years to New York City's Transit Authority/MTA. He began as a Track Worker, retired as Track Maintenance Supervisor. While working full-time, he attended The College of Staten Island earning in 1980 a B.A. in Dramatic Arts. Today, Mr. Thomas is recognized as an accomplished Author, Playwright, and Poet. His book, A Hard Decision explores war, love, loss, and death. His interviews can be seen on Youtube and his website www.westleythomasbooks.com
He continues to be a dedicated advocate for veterans. He is a Life Member of Staten Island's Sgt. Angel Mendez Detachment 246 Marine Corps League, and a Life Member of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 126 in Manhattan. In recognition of his service and contributions to our community, the nation, and The City of New York, 2016 Mr. Thomas received from The Council, City of New York a Proclamation from Deborah Rose, Council Member, 49th District; a Certificate of Recognition from NYS Senator, Diane J. Savino, 23rd District; a Certificate from the Hon. Letitia James, Public Advocate for the City of New York in recognition for outstanding service and contributions to our country.
Sponsored by Westley Thomas