Veteran Recognition for Charles Thompson

Spec 5 Charles Paul Thompson enlisted with the US Army in June 1968 and served until June 1971.

His Basic Training took place at Fort Bragg, NC from June-August of 1968. He then attended Advanced Training from September to October at Fort Leonard Wood, MO, and was certified as an Engineer, dozer operator 62E20.

Charlie was deployed to Vietnam with the 59th Engineer Company from December 1968 to April 1969 as a Bulldozer and radio operator. Dozers were used to clear land and cut roads around fire bases between the demilitarized zone and A Shau Valley. He also operated what was referred to as a “dummy dozer”...the lead dozer in a caravan of 25 or so equipped with a special blade to seek out land mines. While operating the dozer during these protective measures, Charlie did encounter some small personal mines, but considers himself lucky for not discovering and anti-tank mines.

Much of Charlie’s time in Vietnam was spent in the jungle where he had the opportunity to see some exotic wildlife: deer, monkeys, wild boar and even a tiger. The only unwelcome creatures were the leeches in the streams where he often had to bathe.

In April of 1969, Charlie was injured by the impact of a fallen tree taken down by another dozer. He was taken by chopper to a MASH unit, then to Japan to treat the extensive injuries to his jaw, ribs and femur bones. One month later he transferred to Walter Reed hospital for further care and rehabilitation for nerve damage. After 8 months recovery time, Charlie was sent back to Fort Leonard Wood, MO where he worked Armory for 6 months.

He then went on to Germany for 13 months with the 317th Engineer Company stationed just outside of Frankfurt. His job there was as Communication Specialist, operating the radio communication for the company. Additionally, he was the Lieutenant ‘s driver.

After discharge, Charlie took advantage of GI bill, went to trade school, and started his career as a transmission builder.

Spec 5 Charles Paul Thompson’s received Medals and Service Ribbons:

National Defense Service Medal

Vietnam Service Medal

Vietnam Campaign Medal

Weapons training- Expert M-14, M-16

Thank you, Spec 5 Charles Paul Thompson for your service in the US Army and association with VFW Post 7012, New Freedom. It has been an honor and privilege to feature your military bio in my 5000 mile journey to Veteran’s Day.