IN MEMORY HONOR ROLL

A native of Detroit, Thomas Corey served with the 1st Air Cavalry Division, 1st Battalion, 12th Calvary in Vietnam in May 1967. While in battle on January 31, 1968, he received an enemy round in the neck that left him a quadriplegic. He was medically retired from the U.S. Army in May 1968. For his service, Corey became a decorated combat veteran receiving the Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze Star Medal with V device for Valor, two Purple Hearts, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Republic Vietnam Gallantry Cross.

In 1972, Corey relocated to West Palm Beach, Florida, where he became involved in community affairs. A veteran’s leader and advocate, he served on advisory boards with local government, including the VA Medical Centers in Miami and West Palm Beach. For over fifteen years he was an Ombudsman and Program Specialist at the West Palm Beach VA Medical Center.

Corey was founding President of VVA Palm Beach County Chapter 25 in 1981. In 1991 it was renamed the Thomas H. Corey Chapter. From 1985 to 2005, he served on VVA’s National Board of Directors, including serving as Secretary, Vice-President, and President. Tom worked with and supported Ruth Coder Fitzgerald and AVVA for the creation and dedication of the “In Memory” plaque in 2004. Corey was the first recipient of VVA’s Commendation Medal, their highest award for service.

Corey returned to Vietnam 16 times representing Vietnam Veterans of America and the Veterans Initiative program. He led delegations meeting with top Vietnamese and Laos leaders, along with many associations responsible for recovery efforts of Americans still listed as POW/MIA and those studying the effects of Agent Orange. Corey was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in Vietnam.

He resided in Jupiter, Florida.

REMEMBRANCES

LEFT FOR Thomas Corey

POSTED ON 6.7.2023

POSTED BY: Trang Corey

Remembering My Father

My Dad Thomas was an incredible man. It was an honor to have him as my father. He was a blessing not only to me but to so many people. Although he dealt with numerous challenges that came from being paralyzed, he never stopped fighting for veterans his whole life. He lived his life with integrity and humility. What I admired about him the most is that no matter how much pain he was having he never showed it. He had a gentle soul. Some of my favorite things were his smile and great sense of humor. He was an inspiration, a true hero, and leaves behind a great legacy. I truly believe that he was heaven sent.

My Hero

By the grace of God, I started working with Tom in 1992, and had the honor and privilege to be his private nurse and close friend for three decades. Tom was at the forefront of every issue and always ready for the next challenge ahead. Despite his catastrophic injuries, he remained tenacious and got up every morning to serve veterans. It was an honor to call Tom my dear friend. He was my hero, and I will miss him more than words can say. Thank you, Tom, for all the memories and the incredible journey we shared.