Posted by Wayne A. Thornton, CAPT, USN (Ret) on September 2, 2026:

I was very saddened to learn of Tom's passing. I had tried to contact him several times after he retired, but apparently had old phone numbers. In any case, I worked with Tom when he was on the staff of Camp Olmstead at Goshen Scout Camps, in 1967 - 1968. As seasoned Eagle Scouts, we taught skills in hiking, camping, pioneering, survival camping, etc. and led many mini-expeditions into the George Washington National Forest. On one trip, a young Scout in our group stepped on a timber rattler. It was late and we didn't want to relocate camp at night, so he and I caught and trapped the rattler. It was a big one -- at least 5 feet. Tom was fearless. Later the same night, we had to trap a second rattler just as big. Both were such beautiful specimens they ended up in the National Zoo. Tom was always full of energy, ready for the next adventure, a patient and effective teacher, and always ready to help a friend. He had the makings of a super Army officer when he was only 16 years old. He and I went different ways -- me to the Naval Academy, and Tom to West Point, which was the perfect choice for him. We all knew he was destined for great things. Rest in Peace old friend.

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