Thomas Edward Eccleston

West Point, 1975

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by COL Christopher L. Cox on October 24, 2021:

Tom Eccelston and I met when I was a Noncommissioned Officer serving in the 705th Military Police Battalion at Ft, Leavenworth, Kansas. I met Tom when he was umpiring a ball game that I was playing in. I was catching and the batter fouled off a ball and Tom handed me a knew ball. I saw his West Point Class ring and we immediately began talking after the game. I found out that he was a tactics instructor at the CGSC. I told Tom that I had attended Norwich University with the Class of 1983 but did not commission on graduation and chose to enlist as a Military Policeman and serve as a combat MP for a little whie and then attend OCS. Tom and I became good friends, often getting together during off duty hours and "hoisting a few" together as he called it. He met my father as well and became a great friend of my immediate family (My Wife and kids) as well as with my Mon and Dad and always came by when they visited me in my quarters. He assisted me and advised me in my application process to OCS and because of his support, I ws able to gain acceptance into the program and commission in the Air defense Artillery (FAADS). He was there when I commissioned and he swore me in. My career as an officer took me away from him for a while but I ran into him again when I was a Major. Tom had a great sense of humor and a very unique laugh. He was a very down to earth person, a great leader, and competent. He was a true brother and friend. I have thought of him often and miss the fellowship we used to have. I was shocked to learn of his passing. This world is a lesser place without him but I know he is looking down on all of us and making sure that we are making the best of our lives enjoying it to the fillest as he did. Rest in peace my good brother. We miss you Tom. COL Chris Cox "NU Class of 1983" OCS Class 4-93

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