John Merl Thayer

The database page for John Merl Thayer

18 Mar 2008 Airman First Class John M. Thayer, of Oregon, Ohio, lost his life in Vietnam while serving at the Qui Nhon Army Airfield. An air cargo specialist, Airman Thayer was in charge of the ammo dump. Entering the Air Force on August 12, 1969, Airman Thayer had been stationed in Vietnam from January 8, 1970, until his death. A fellow Airman First Class John Nagel provided this account on the mishap that claimed Airman Thayer's life. Airman Nagel recounted that he and Thayer set out to walk the inside of the perimeter of their AO within the base, at approximately 10:30 p.m. Nagel said the base had been subjected to incoming rocket fire from time to time and the airmen routinely checked their area for peace of mind before retiring for the night. As they were crossing a service road inside the base, a Korean driving a large truck came around the corner of a building, lights out (a common practice at night), and stuck Airman Thayer. Airman Nagel said he and and a few others transported Thayer to the Evac hospital, but Airman Thayer died before they were able to get him medical assistance. Airman First Class John Thayer was a graduate of Clay Senior High School where he had been a member of the band. At the time of his death, Airman Thayer's brother, Gerald L. Thayer, was also serving in the Air Force, stationed in Japan. Jerry A. Eversman Researcher jeversman@aol.com DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE Headquarters Pacific Air Force APO San Francisco 96553 23 DECEMBER 1970 GENERAL ORDERS NUMBER 14367 AWARD OF THE AIR FORCE COMMENDATION MEDAL 1. TC 439. The following AWARD is announced posthumously. THAYER, JOHN M. Ser. No. 280522870 Airman First Class (A1C) USAF-OLAF, 15th Aerial Port Squadron Awarded: Air Force Commendation Medal Date action: 8 January 1970 to 17 October 1970 Theater: Republic of Vietnam Reason: Airman First Class John M. Thayer distinguished himself by meritorious service as an Air Cargo Specialist, Operating Location, AF, 15th Aerial Port Squadron, Qui Nhon Army Airfield, Republic of Vietnam, from 8 January 1970 to 17 October 1970. During this period, Airman Thayer's outstanding professional skill and initiative aided immeasurably in identifying and solving numerous problems encountered in the accomplishment of his duties. The energetic application of his knowledge has played a significant role in contributing to the success of the United States Air Force's mission in Southeast Asia. The distinctive accomplishments of Airman Thayer in the dedication of his service to his country reflect credit upon himself and the United States Air Force. Authority: By direction of the Secretary of the Air Force, under the provisions of AR 672-5-1, and USARV Reg 672-1. //s// Joseph J. Nazzaro General, USAF Commander In Chief

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With all respect
Jim Schueckler, former CW2, US Army
Ken Davis, Commander, United States Navy (Ret)
Memorial first published on 18 Mar 2008
Last updated 08/10/2009