VETERAN OF THE DAY
January 31, 2026
LTC BERNARD D. THOMPSON JR
U.S. ARMY
May 27, 1926 – January 31, 1968
KILLED IN ACTION | VIETNAM WAR
BASIC INFORMATION
Name: Bernard D. Thompson Jr
Rank: Lieutenant Colonel (LTC)
Branch: United States Army
Home of Record: Tennessee
Date of Birth: May 27, 1926
Date of Death: January 31, 1968
Age: 41
Casualty Location: Vinh Long, Republic of Vietnam
Vietnam Veterans Memorial: Panel 37E
HONORING HIS SERVICE
On January 31, 1968, Lieutenant Colonel Bernard D. Thompson Jr was killed in action during the opening hours of the Tet Offensive.
In the early morning darkness, coordinated enemy attacks struck cities and installations across South Vietnam. At Vinh Long Army Airfield, mortar and rocket fire rained down as part of the widespread offensive that would redefine the war.
Lieutenant Colonel Thompson was moving to protective cover during the attack when he was fatally wounded. He was 41 years old, a seasoned officer leading during one of the most pivotal nights of the conflict.
His death came at the very moment the Tet Offensive erupted across the country — a night that would change military strategy, public perception, and the course of the Vietnam War.
IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS
Lieutenant Colonel Thompson was not a teenager fresh out of high school. He was a mature officer, a leader, a husband, a father, and a man entrusted with responsibility.
When the attack began, he did what leaders do — he moved toward duty.
On January 31, 1968, as Tet ignited across South Vietnam, he stood his ground and gave his life in service to his country.
Today we speak his name clearly:
Lieutenant Colonel Bernard D. Thompson Jr.
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The Micky Spano Show and mickyspano.com/ honor a Veteran of the Day every day because remembrance is not optional.
Today we honor LTC Bernard D. Thompson Jr, United States Army, who gave his life in Vietnam on January 31, 1968, during the opening night of the Tet Offensive.
If you served with Lieutenant Colonel Thompson, knew his family, or have photos or memories you would like to share, please reach out so his story continues to be told.
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