Colonel Tom Warner Thomas

Description:

Colonel Thomas of Searcy fought as an Infantry Officer in Vietnam earning the Bronze Star Medal and the Army Commendation Medal for Valor. He served three decades in the Arkansas Army National Guard earning the Legion of Merit. He serves on the Arkansas Veterans Commission and is active in civic service to Searcy.

Colonel Thomas played a vital part in the development of the Searcy Sports Complex, which was a tremendous undertaking for the City due to the financial constraints placed upon the community. Initially, development funds were very limited and much work was needed to prepare the massive amount of acres designated for the Sports Complex. Through his military connection with the Arkansas National Guard he acquired the necessary manpower, heavy equipment and related resource needed for preparing the fifty plus acres for its’ final phase of completion. It was estimated that this saved the city approximately over $150,000. He actively participated in many fundraising activities that provided the much-needed financial support for the complex. Today, the Sports complex is a premier site that is host for several state tournaments in soccer and baseball. In addition, Colonel Thomas was appointed and served as a member of the Parks and Recreation Commission for more than five years.

Colonel Thomas is also a very active member of the Optimist Club in Searcy. He has served as President of the Optimist Club and later served as Lieutenant Governor of the Optimist Club for the State of Arkansas. 

On 7 September 1971 Colonel Thomas received the Army Commendation Medal with “V” device for Valor. The narrative reads as follows:
For heroism in connection with military operations against a hostile enemy force in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Thomas V. Tomas distinguished himself by valorous actions on 7 September 1971. Disregarding his own safety, he courageously exposed himself to the dangers inherent in the combat environment as he directed his efforts toward neutralizing the enemy threat. His valiant actions were characterized by the great concern for the welfare of his comrades and contributed materially to the successful accomplishment of the mission of the United States in the Republic of Vietnam. His loyalty, diligence and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army. 

More Info:

Colonel Thomas of Searcy fought as an Infantry Officer in Vietnam earning the Bronze Star Medal and the Army Commendation Medal for Valor. He served three decades in the Arkansas Army National Guard earning the Legion of Merit. He serves on the Arkansas Veterans Commission and is active in civic service to Searcy.