He graduated from Shattuck Military School in Faribault, MN. and in 1952 enlisted in the Air Force. He received his wings through the Aviation Cadet Program in 1953. From 1954 to 1957 he served as a flight instructor at Bryan Air Force Base, Texas.
He attended University of Nevada majoring in English and Journalism. After a 8 year break he re-initiated his Air Force Career and served in the 304th Rescue and Recovery Squadron in Portland, Oregon. In 1976 he assumed command of the Squadron until promoted to Colonel at which time was selected to return to active duty as the Reserve Forces Advisor to Headquarters 23rd Air Force at Scott AFB, Illinois. He remained in that position until his retirement 1 October 1985.
Returning home he continued his flying career flying for the Providence Heart Program until the program closed in the early 1990’s.
Tom and his wife build and moved to their retirement home in Neahkahnie 1999.
