Thomas P. McKenna (born July 23, 1930) is a retired United States Army officer and author. His book Kontum: The Battle to Save South Vietnam won the 2013 William E. Colby Award.[1]
Thomas P. McKenna | |
|---|---|
| Born | July 23, 1930 |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ | United States Army |
| Years of service | 1948–1970 |
| Rank | Lieutenant Colonel |
| Unit | 82nd Airborne Division |
| Battles/wars | Vietnam War |
Early life edit
McKenna was born on July 23, 1930, and raised Nebraska and Florida.[2] He was a Boy Scout and made Eagle rank.[3]
Military career edit
Upon his graduation from Castle Heights Military Academy in 1948, McKenna enlisted in the army, and served with the 82nd Airborne Division. After a year of service, he was sent to West Point Military Academy. McKenna spent a total of 22 years in the military.[2]
His military education included stints at the Parachute and Glider School, Basic and Advanced Infantry Officer Courses, Ranger School, Airborne School, Pathfinder School, and the Command and General Staff College. McKenna also obtained a master's degree in history from the University of Kansas.
He was stationed in Germany, Italy, Korea, and Vietnam, spending the last of his military career as an advisor to South Vietnam.[3][4] It was during his time as an advisor to South Vietnamese that the Battle of Kontum occurred.[2]
References edit
- ^ Gardner, Jan (March 30, 2013). "'Kontum: The Battle to Save South Vietnam' wins Colby Award". Boston Globe. Archived from the original on May 2, 2014. Retrieved May 24, 2015. Alt URL
- ^ a b c Pollak, Sally (March 8, 2013). "Stowe Vietnam vet wins award for military history book". Burlington Free Press. Retrieved May 26, 2015.
- ^ a b "Footprints: Retired Lt. Col. Thomas P. McKenna". Fayetteville Observer. January 1, 2012. Retrieved May 24, 2015.
- ^ "Thomas McKenna". Norwich University. Retrieved May 24, 2015.