Leland Evan Thomas

Infobox Military Person
name = Leland Evan Thomas
born = birth date|1918|9|20
died = death date and age|1942|9|18|1918|9|20
placeofbirth = Ontario, Oregon
placeofdeath = Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands


caption =
nickname =
allegiance = United States of America
serviceyears = 1941–1942
rank = Second Lieutenant
branch = United States Marine Corps Reserve
unit =
battles = World War II *Guadalcanal campaign
awards = Distinguished Flying Cross (posthumous)

Leland Evan Thomas was born 20 September 1918 in Ontario, Oregon.

Marine Corps career

He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves 10 September 1941, was appointed air cadet 15 October 1941 and commissioned 2d lieutenant 17 April 1942.

Awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross

While serving in the southwest Pacific "Lieutenant Thomas" contributed to the sinking of a Japanese cruiser and a destroyer and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.

:“for heroism and extraordinary achievement as a pilot....His indomitable fighting spirit was in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.”

"Lieutenant Thomas" was killed in action at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, 18 September 1942 while launching an aggressive attack on enemy warships.

Namesake

"Leland E. Thomas" (DE-420) was named in his honor. She was laid down 21 January 1944 by Brown Shipbuilding Co., Houston, Texas; launched 28 February 1944; sponsored by Mrs. Benjamin E. Thomas, mother of "Lieutenant Thomas"; and commissioned 19 June 1944, Lt. Comdr. Leslie E. Rosenberg in command.

ee also

References

:DANFS
* [http://www.history.navy.mil/danfs/l5/leland_e_thomas.htm Leland Evan Thomas]