THE WALL OF FACES

Tom, you were the best babysitter we ever had. I think of you and Jerry often.

Private First Class Thomas James Kordosky, Served with the 13th Quartermaster Company, 29th General Support Group, United States Army Support Command (Saigon), 1st Logistical Command, United States Army Vietnam.

PFC Thomas J. Kordosky was a Petroleum Supply Specialist serving with the 13th Quartermaster Platoon, 29th General Support Group, Army Support Command Saigon. On January 25, 1970, PFC Kordosky reportedly drowned in the Vung Tau Harbor in Phuoc Tuy Province, RVN. Three days later, the USNS Comet (T-AK-269), a Navy vehicle landing ship, entered the Vung Tau harbor and recovered the body of a Caucasian male wearing civilian clothes floating down her port side in the vicinity of Buoy Two. The only identification found on the body was a military identification tag indicating his name as Thomas J. Kordosky. His body was taken to the De Long Pier and turned over to the 345th Medical Detachment. Kordosky had only been in Vietnam 12 days at the time of his death. [Taken from coffeltdatabase.org]

Tom; We were best friends in high school and I remember our many good laughs, especially in Mr. Berg's typing class. Seems like you, me and Doug were always getting trouble for talking and creating our bit of mayhem and how he passed us is still a mystery. I wish you were still here as our 50th high school reunion is coming up in 2 years and I sure would like to share old times and memories. Doug passed away from Agent Orange 10 years ago and he is also sorely missed. You and 58,000 other brave men and women died way too young. You gave the ultimate sacrifice for your comrades in arms and for our great country. I look up your name when I see the Wall and break down in tears every time. I miss you good friend.

This photo is Tom’s 1968 senior class picture from St. Paul Johnson High School. The picture was provided by Herb Reckinger Jr. of Cottage Grove, Minnesota. Thank you Herb!

Tom, it is with great humility, pride and honor that Herb and I post this remembrance for you and upload your photo so that your memory and the sacrifice you made for your country will never be forgotten and to ensure your photo will be displayed on your birthday each and every year when the Education Center is completed. You are not forgotten and remain in the hearts of many after all these years. Thank you Tom for being who you were and for all you did. We live in freedom to this day thanks to heroes like you that answered the call to duty.

You were one of the brave that answered the call. You honored us by your service and sacrifice. We now honor you each time we stand and sing the words “THE LAND OF THE FREE AND THE HOME OF THE BRAVE”. Rest in Peace and Honor Tom.