88S10205 BPG-D
By: LaMantia S.R. No. 37
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, Donald Thompson of Weslaco served his country with
great honor and distinction throughout his 24 years in the United
States Air Force; and
WHEREAS, After joining the military in 1963, Don Thompson
completed basic training at Lackland Air Force Base and went on to
student course training at Sheppard AFB with the 3772nd School
Squadron; he served in the Vietnam War, and one of his most
harrowing experiences occurred on a reconnaissance flight over Ho
Chi Minh Trail; the autopilot was engaged at 30,000 feet while the
pilot and copilot slept and the crew was occupied listening
intently for enemy trucks and tanks; no one immediately noticed
when the wings and fuselage began to ice up, and the aircraft
suddenly plunged 6,500 feet, pinning Mr. Thompson in place;
fortunately, the pilot was able to regain control at 13,500 feet and
none of the crew was injured; they continued with their mission, but
both wings of the plane later had to be replaced; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Thompson's international deployments also
included time in Taiwan and at Lajes Field in the Azores; stateside,
he was stationed at Offutt AFB in Nebraska, Kincheloe AFB in
Michigan, Lockbourne AFB in Ohio, and Little Rock AFB in Arkansas;
among numerous commendations, he received the Air Medal with one
bronze oak leaf cluster, the Military Education Graduate Ribbon
with two bronze oak leaf clusters, the Air Force Longevity Service
Award Ribbon with one silver oak leaf cluster, and the National
Defense Service Medal; he attained the rank of master sergeant; and
WHEREAS, Following his retirement in 1987, Mr. Thompson
worked as a loadmaster instructor; on June 6, 2023, he participated
in an Honor Flight for veterans in St. Louis, Missouri; he is
supported in all his endeavors by the love and encouragement of his
wife, Mary, and they are the proud parents of three children; and
WHEREAS, Don Thompson set an inspiring example through nearly
a quarter century of dedicated service as a member of the nation's
armed forces, and his fellow citizens owe him a lasting debt of
gratitude; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the 88th Texas Legislature, 1st
Called Session, hereby honor Donald Thompson for his long career in
the United States Air Force and extend to him sincere best wishes
for the future; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for Mr. Thompson as an expression of high regard by the
Texas Senate.