Tom Stalvey

Tom Stalvey’s journey to military service began in October 1965 when he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. After completing basic training, he attended aircrew school, where he learned the skills necessary to become a Loadmaster. Loadmasters are essential military aircrew members responsible for the safe loading, transport, and unloading of cargo. Tom’s first duty station was at Sewart AFB near Nashville, TN, where he served as a Loadmaster on C-130 aircraft for two years.

Deployment to Vietnam

In December 1967, Tom received orders to deploy to Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. The role of the Loadmaster became even more critical as the C-130 Hercules and other troop transport aircraft played an important role in moving soldiers and supplies. These aircraft often flew into forward airfields under attack. Following the Tet Offensive of 1968, aircraft like the C-130 earned the nickname “mortar magnets” due to the constant threat of enemy fire. The Loadmaster’s job was to unload cargo quickly to allow the aircraft to get back into the air and avoid enemy fire.

Major Battles and Distinguished Service

Tom’s first tour in Vietnam started on January 30, 1968, during the height of the Tet Offensive. That year, the U.S. lost 63 C-130s, but Tom was fortunate to survive. In 1969, he participated in key battles including the Siege of Khe Sanh, the Battle of Kham Duc, and the Battle of A Shau. These significant events helped define Tom’s service and solidified his role as an integral part of his unit.

Military Honors and Return Home

Tom’s service in Vietnam earned him numerous awards, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, six Air Medals, two Presidential Unit Citations, and the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with “V” for valor in combat. After the Vietnamization process in 1969, Tom returned to the U.S. and was honorably discharged.

Life After Service and Continued Success

Upon returning home, Tom enrolled in the Electronic Computer Programming Institute in Charlottesville, VA. He graduated as a computer programmer and transitioned into a successful career in property management. Tom retired after 30 years in the industry, settling in Atlanta, GA. In 2012, Tom published his memoir, The Lucky Loadmaster II, sharing his experiences from the war.

Hometown Hero Recognition

On June 6, 2017, Tom Stalvey received the Hometown Hero award from the ALCOVA team in Marietta, GA, marking the 73rd anniversary of D-Day. This ceremony included the presence of eight fellow Vietnam veterans from Georgia, Virginia, and North Carolina, who shared in honoring Tom’s exceptional service.