Honoring Tom Moody: A Legacy of Service, Bravery, and Community
Tom Moody’s journey began shortly after high school when he chose a path of service by joining the United States Army. Although his father hoped he’d pursue a degree in civil engineering, Tom felt called to something different. Initially inspired to become a pilot, he visited a Navy recruiter—only to learn he needed a four-year degree. Undeterred, he walked into the Army recruiting office, where an opening in the Military Police got his foot in the door.
But Tom didn’t stop there. He soon set his sights higher, learning that the 82nd Airborne Division was seeking paratroopers. That decision led him on an extraordinary military journey. He advanced through jump school, Officer Candidate School (OCS), and flight school, eventually earning his wings as a helicopter pilot. Remarkably, Tom became the only Sergeant in his unit who was both Airborne and Ranger qualified.
Serving in the 1st Army Aviation Battalion—later renamed the 118th Air Assault Unit at Fort Bragg—Tom was among the first troops deployed to Vietnam. His heroism during that time earned him the prestigious Soldier’s Medal in 1970. While flying a command and control helicopter on a mission, a fellow aircraft struck a tree and burst into flames. Without hesitation, Tom landed nearby, rushed into the fire, and rescued the pilot and crew chief, carrying them to safety one by one and transporting them to a medivac. Both survived because of his bravery.
Over the course of 39 months in Vietnam, Tom completed three tours. Twice, the Army attempted to send him to Germany after his return to the U.S., but Tom requested to go back to Vietnam each time. His third tour was even extended by an additional three months.
During his service, Tom witnessed the evolution of combat operations—from door gunners with M14 rifles to coordinated missions with Air Force F-100 jets. He participated in rescue efforts, including a mission during Thanksgiving aimed at freeing POWs, although the prisoners had been relocated before their arrival.
Looking back, Tom reflects with humility and candor. “We did what we were told, didn’t ask questions, and didn’t always see the big picture,” he says. “We were there for each other—for our brothers.”
The statistics speak to the scale of sacrifice: out of 7,000 helicopters used in Vietnam, 3,000 were destroyed. More than 1,100 helicopter pilots and 1,200 crew members lost their lives. All told, 100,000 pilots and crew served during the war.
After retiring from the military, Tom channeled his dedication and work ethic into entrepreneurship, founding a respected boating business in Destin. Though proud of his service, he remains humble—always quick to credit the bravery of those around him.
In recognition of his lifelong service and continued impact on the community, Tom Moody has been honored as Crestview’s Citizen of the Year 2025.