Lance Corporal Thomas James Tingley, a proud son of Fairfield, Connecticut, served his country with valor as a member of the United States Marine Corps. Born on February 2, 1948, to Frank H. Tingley and Wynona Tingley, he was the beloved brother of Nancy and David Tingley. From an early age, Thomas demonstrated the values of dedication and courage that would define his life and service.

Thomas enlisted in the Marine Corps on July 5, 1966, in New Haven, Connecticut. Driven by a deep sense of duty and patriotism, he embarked on his journey to serve his nation during a time of conflict. After completing his training, Thomas received orders for Vietnam, arriving in-country on August 16, 1967. He was assigned to Company B, 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division (Reinforced), III Marine Amphibious Force (III MAF).

Service in Vietnam

During his deployment, Lance Corporal Tingley and his unit were tasked with critical reconnaissance missions, operating in the challenging and dangerous terrain of northern Quang Tri Province. By December 1967, Company B was conducting operations from the Khe Sanh Combat Base, a strategic location near the Laotian border.

On December 30, 1967, while on patrol approximately nine kilometers west of Khe Sanh, Thomas and his fellow Marines were ambushed by enemy forces. In the intense firefight that ensued, Lance Corporal Tingley displayed unwavering bravery. Despite heavy enemy fire, the unit managed to extract their casualties, thanks to covering fire provided by helicopter gunships. Tragically, Thomas was killed in action that day, succumbing to hostile rifle fire. His sacrifice exemplified the highest ideals of service and selflessness.

Remembering His Valor

Lance Corporal Tingley’s extraordinary service and sacrifice were recognized with numerous honors, reflecting the profound impact he made during his brief but distinguished military career. Among his awards are:

• Purple Heart
• Combat Action Ribbon
• Navy Presidential Unit Citation
• Navy Unit Commendation
• Vietnam Civil Actions Unit Citation
• National Defense Service Medal
• Vietnam Service Medal
• Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation
• Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal

Thomas’s name is forever etched on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., at Panel 33E, Line 5. His memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, as well as in the legacy of courage he left behind.

A Life Remembered

Thomas James Tingley’s story is one of honor, bravery, and sacrifice. As a son, brother, and Marine, he gave everything in service to his country. His loss, while deeply felt, serves as a reminder of the immense cost of freedom. Today, we honor his memory, reflecting on the life of a young man who answered the call of duty and made the ultimate sacrifice. May his legacy inspire generations to come.

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