Tom earned his eligibility to the VFW, with service in the Navy from 1965-1967.  He was served on the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt CVA 42 and served in Viet Nam.  He was in V2 Division (Catapults & Arresting Gear) and mostly ran the supply for the Division but did put some time in on the LSO Platform spotting planes.  

Tom joined Niles Post 7712 in 1975 and became a life member in 1976.  He has held every office in his Post both elected and appointed.  He has served as Post Command 8 times and was All State Commander 3 times.  He has also served the 4^th District for 30 years holding many different offices including District Commander in 2010-2011.  He has also served The Department of Illinois as Americanism Director for 8 years.  He has served The National VFW as Assistant Inspector General in 2015-16 and 2016-17 and was awarded Nation Aide-De-De-Camp 7 times.