In Memory of ....... Maj. Thomas Allen Duckett.
*** Captain Duckett was a member of the 23rd Tactical Air Support Squadron at Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand. On December 12, 1970, he was the pilot of a Cessna Skymaster Observation Aircraft (O-2A) on a forward air coonntrol mission about 6 mils east on Sepone, Sanammakhet Provinve. Laos, where it was shot down. His remains were not recovered. His name is inscribed on the Courts of the Missing at the Honolulu Memorial.
You may be gone, no longer living on this earth; but you will live on - in the memories of your family and friends. There will always be a part of you living in those who knew you. You will live on because we remember you!
THOMAS ALLEN DUCKETT - Air Force - MAJ - O4
Age: 32
Race: Caucasian
Date of Birth Nov 12, 1946
From: LA GRANGE, GA - Per Military DD1300 Thomas was born in Chattanooga,TN.
Religion: PRESBYTERIAN
Marital Status: Single - Parents: Father, Dennis Durrin Duckett, Born Jan. 12, 1920 (May have re-married - Mildred Vest (Born Sept. 1, 1970)(Dennis) Duckett of Ringgold) at 95 yrs he is still alive and living in Ringgold, GA with Mildred and Mother, Alice L. Duckett, Born est. 1917 and Died April 30, 1994 in Walker, GA at the age of 77 yrs old. Both parents born in Georgia.
* Paternal Grandparents: Wilson E. Duckett, Born March 28, 1885 and Died July 15, 1968 (FAG #98157196) and May T. Carder Duckett, Born May 14, 1890 and Died Dec. 26, 1967, born in Georgia.
***** United States Census, 1940
Name: Alice Duckett
Event Type: Census
Event Date: 1940
Event Place: Militia District 872, Whitfield, Georgia, United States
Gender: Female
Age: 23
Marital Status: Married
Race: White
Relationship to Head of Household: Wife
Birthplace: Georgia
Birth Year (Estimated): 1917
Last Place of Residence: Rural, Catoosa, Georgia
Household Role Gender Age Birthplace
Dennis Duckett Head M 20 Georgia
Alice Duckett Wife F 23 Georgia
***** United States Census, 1930
Name: Dennis D Duckett - YOUR DADDY.........
Event Type: Census
Event Year: 1930
Event Place: Dalton, Whitfield, Georgia, United States
Gender: Male
Age: 10
Marital Status: Single
Race: White
Relationship to Head of Household: Son
Birth Year (Estimated): 1920
Birthplace: Georgia
Father's Birthplace: Georgia
Mother's Birthplace: Georgia
Household Role Gender Age Birthplace
Wilson E Duckett Head M 45 Georgia
May T Duckett Wife F 39 Georgia
Gladys R Duckett Daughter F 19 Georgia
Paul E Duckett Son 14 Georgia - FAG #17847455......
Pauline C Duckett Daughter F 14 Georgia
Dennis D Duckett Son M 10 Georgia - YOUR DAD.....
Katie Evelyn Duckett Daughter F 8 Georgia
***** Tommy, I still have the little valise you bought for me when I went on leave. Two weeks before you went down. You will always be remembered by your brothers from the 23 TASS.
Patrick McCaslin
Added: Aug. 27, 2014
***** Tommy - as we called him was a blond headed All American boy. Tommy was actually from Ringgold, Georgia. He was an only child.
His cousin,Ross Allen
***** On April 13, 2006 the American Legion Department of Georgia and the citizens of Ringgold and Catoosa county, dedicated the I-75 exit 348 interchange to honor Major Thomas A. Duckett, the exit at ringgold, ga has been renamed in honor of THOMAS.
RICK ALLEN - cousin from ringgold, ga.
His tour began on Dec 12, 1970
Casualty was on Jul 27, 1979-Actually on Dec. 12, 1970.
In LZ, LAOS
Hostile, died while missing, FIXED WING - CREW
AIR LOSS, CRASH ON LAND
Body was not recovered
Panel 06W - Line 116
Other Personnel In Incident: Owen G. Skinner (missing)
on December 12, 1970 on a Forward Air Control (FAC) mission over Laos. 1Lt. Thomas A. Duckett and Maj. Owen G. Skinner comprised the crew of an O2A spotter aircraft which departed NKP Airport (NOTE: While Defense Department records indicate that Duckett was the observer, and Skinner the pilot, U.S. Air Force records indicate that Duckett was the pilot. The military occupational specialties (MOS) of both men are classified, and it cannot be determined which was the pilot and which was the observer.)
The A model flown by Duckett and Skinner served the function of marking targets with marking rockets. It was a small, poorly armored aircraft which normally flew unarmed. While the aircraft was over Savannakhet Province, Laos, about 6 miles east southeast of the city of Sepone, it was shot down.
After the aircraft crashed, radio contact was made with 1Lt. Duckett. The limited information available publicly does not reveal whether Skinner also survived the crash of the aircraft, nor does it indicate that any efforts were made to recover the crew.
Family members report, however, that the following day, search aircraft located the aircraft intact on the ground in a small clearing.
There was no sign of fire damage to the aircraft, and parachutes were seen in the area of the crash. For the following two days electronic emergency radio beepers were heard, but could never be pinpointed as they were shifting frequently.
Hostile ground fire and activity prevented a ground search. Both men were declared Missing in Action.
Like many POW/MIA families, they resorted to filing numerous requests of Government agencies through the Freedom of Information Act. One such classified report received by the Duckett family described an American
prisoner fitting Duckett's description who was identified in Laos in February 1974.
Thomas A. Duckett was promoted to the rank of Major and Owen G. Skinner to the rank of Colonel during the period they were maintained Missing in Action.
*************
Thomas mother, Dolly went to Vietnam, laos several times to view crash sites, she never gave up that "TOMMY" was alive up until the day she passed away and went to see him in heaven. she was buried with a picture of him in her casket. My dad and my uncle ric grew up with him and enjoyed the time they had with him. The family has never forgotten thomas or the other POW/MIA from vietnam or previous wars. PLEASE NEVER FORGET OUR SOLDIERS FROM PAST OR PRESENT WARS !!!LEST WE NEVER FORGET!! ALL GAVE SOME, SOME GAVE ALL!!!
I AM A VETERAN OF DESERT STORM 1990-1991
U.S. ARMY SARGENT
*****************************************
Remembering, Our Lost Brother
"Nail," FAC., Thomas Duckett, lost, in Laos, 12, Dec., 70.
The American Legion Department of Georgia, citizens of Catoosa County, Ringgold, Georgan and veteran's groups honored Major Duckett April 13, 2006 through the dedication of the I-75 Exit 348 Interchange. The Interchange is now the Major Thomas A. Duckett Interchange. A granite marker and a tree of hope were also dedicated.
The program included an Air Force fly-over, the Ringgold High School Band, the Ringgold and Ridgeland JROTC, Vietnam Veteran's Honor Guard, General Ronald Griffith (Ret), the entire Catoosa County Legislative Delegation, most local officials and many citizens. Pete Wheeler, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Veterans Services, was the Master of Ceremonies and Harold Linnenkohl, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Transportation, read the Resolution at the Dedication.
I am from Ringgold, Georgia - Thomas' hometown. I was a cadet in the JROTC program and presided over the ceremony when our JROTC building was dedicated in his name.
I have worn his remembrance band since 1987 and barely a day goes by that I don't acknowledge him. Though I no longer live in Georgia, I try to research any news of him online. I recently found the article that in April 2006 an interchange on Interstate 75 near Ringgold was named for Thomas.
It is an amazing feeling to see others that either know him or also wear his memory on their body. I have never removed his bracelet, nor do I plan to until his remains are returned.
Nikki McNew
Larry Gemma - When the POW/MIA issue heated up I wore Tom's bracelet (for ten years) & wrote his parents, who sent me a photograph of this dashing, handsome USAF jock smiling away as if he was really enjoying himself. I think he was flying the Bronco? His parents wrote on the back of the photo, "Thailand a few days before he went down." Thinking of you.
Larry Gemma, CAPT, USNR (Ret)
********************
A Grave contributor Claude Barnhart has sponsored the memorial for Thomas Duckett.
I also want to thank him for the wonderful picture of Thomas smiling and the other added information.
12/12/2011 - Today, It has been 41 years since Tom Duckett and Owen Skinner were shot down in Laos. Tom was a friend from USAF Officer Training School (OTS), and I consider both my brothers. I have added three pictures to this site, one of Tom taken shortly before he was shot down (provided by Ross & Mary Ellen Ross), and the other two copies of government documents that showed that both Tom and Owen were still considered to be alive in March 1992 (ref. http://www.nationalalliance.org/59/59list.htm ) -- they were just 2 of 59 POW's thought to still be alive.
*****************************************
.
*** Captain Duckett was a member of the 23rd Tactical Air Support Squadron at Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand. On December 12, 1970, he was the pilot of a Cessna Skymaster Observation Aircraft (O-2A) on a forward air coonntrol mission about 6 mils east on Sepone, Sanammakhet Provinve. Laos, where it was shot down. His remains were not recovered. His name is inscribed on the Courts of the Missing at the Honolulu Memorial.
You may be gone, no longer living on this earth; but you will live on - in the memories of your family and friends. There will always be a part of you living in those who knew you. You will live on because we remember you!
THOMAS ALLEN DUCKETT - Air Force - MAJ - O4
Age: 32
Race: Caucasian
Date of Birth Nov 12, 1946
From: LA GRANGE, GA - Per Military DD1300 Thomas was born in Chattanooga,TN.
Religion: PRESBYTERIAN
Marital Status: Single - Parents: Father, Dennis Durrin Duckett, Born Jan. 12, 1920 (May have re-married - Mildred Vest (Born Sept. 1, 1970)(Dennis) Duckett of Ringgold) at 95 yrs he is still alive and living in Ringgold, GA with Mildred and Mother, Alice L. Duckett, Born est. 1917 and Died April 30, 1994 in Walker, GA at the age of 77 yrs old. Both parents born in Georgia.
* Paternal Grandparents: Wilson E. Duckett, Born March 28, 1885 and Died July 15, 1968 (FAG #98157196) and May T. Carder Duckett, Born May 14, 1890 and Died Dec. 26, 1967, born in Georgia.
***** United States Census, 1940
Name: Alice Duckett
Event Type: Census
Event Date: 1940
Event Place: Militia District 872, Whitfield, Georgia, United States
Gender: Female
Age: 23
Marital Status: Married
Race: White
Relationship to Head of Household: Wife
Birthplace: Georgia
Birth Year (Estimated): 1917
Last Place of Residence: Rural, Catoosa, Georgia
Household Role Gender Age Birthplace
Dennis Duckett Head M 20 Georgia
Alice Duckett Wife F 23 Georgia
***** United States Census, 1930
Name: Dennis D Duckett - YOUR DADDY.........
Event Type: Census
Event Year: 1930
Event Place: Dalton, Whitfield, Georgia, United States
Gender: Male
Age: 10
Marital Status: Single
Race: White
Relationship to Head of Household: Son
Birth Year (Estimated): 1920
Birthplace: Georgia
Father's Birthplace: Georgia
Mother's Birthplace: Georgia
Household Role Gender Age Birthplace
Wilson E Duckett Head M 45 Georgia
May T Duckett Wife F 39 Georgia
Gladys R Duckett Daughter F 19 Georgia
Paul E Duckett Son 14 Georgia - FAG #17847455......
Pauline C Duckett Daughter F 14 Georgia
Dennis D Duckett Son M 10 Georgia - YOUR DAD.....
Katie Evelyn Duckett Daughter F 8 Georgia
***** Tommy, I still have the little valise you bought for me when I went on leave. Two weeks before you went down. You will always be remembered by your brothers from the 23 TASS.
Patrick McCaslin
Added: Aug. 27, 2014
***** Tommy - as we called him was a blond headed All American boy. Tommy was actually from Ringgold, Georgia. He was an only child.
His cousin,Ross Allen
***** On April 13, 2006 the American Legion Department of Georgia and the citizens of Ringgold and Catoosa county, dedicated the I-75 exit 348 interchange to honor Major Thomas A. Duckett, the exit at ringgold, ga has been renamed in honor of THOMAS.
RICK ALLEN - cousin from ringgold, ga.
His tour began on Dec 12, 1970
Casualty was on Jul 27, 1979-Actually on Dec. 12, 1970.
In LZ, LAOS
Hostile, died while missing, FIXED WING - CREW
AIR LOSS, CRASH ON LAND
Body was not recovered
Panel 06W - Line 116
Other Personnel In Incident: Owen G. Skinner (missing)
on December 12, 1970 on a Forward Air Control (FAC) mission over Laos. 1Lt. Thomas A. Duckett and Maj. Owen G. Skinner comprised the crew of an O2A spotter aircraft which departed NKP Airport (NOTE: While Defense Department records indicate that Duckett was the observer, and Skinner the pilot, U.S. Air Force records indicate that Duckett was the pilot. The military occupational specialties (MOS) of both men are classified, and it cannot be determined which was the pilot and which was the observer.)
The A model flown by Duckett and Skinner served the function of marking targets with marking rockets. It was a small, poorly armored aircraft which normally flew unarmed. While the aircraft was over Savannakhet Province, Laos, about 6 miles east southeast of the city of Sepone, it was shot down.
After the aircraft crashed, radio contact was made with 1Lt. Duckett. The limited information available publicly does not reveal whether Skinner also survived the crash of the aircraft, nor does it indicate that any efforts were made to recover the crew.
Family members report, however, that the following day, search aircraft located the aircraft intact on the ground in a small clearing.
There was no sign of fire damage to the aircraft, and parachutes were seen in the area of the crash. For the following two days electronic emergency radio beepers were heard, but could never be pinpointed as they were shifting frequently.
Hostile ground fire and activity prevented a ground search. Both men were declared Missing in Action.
Like many POW/MIA families, they resorted to filing numerous requests of Government agencies through the Freedom of Information Act. One such classified report received by the Duckett family described an American
prisoner fitting Duckett's description who was identified in Laos in February 1974.
Thomas A. Duckett was promoted to the rank of Major and Owen G. Skinner to the rank of Colonel during the period they were maintained Missing in Action.
*************
Thomas mother, Dolly went to Vietnam, laos several times to view crash sites, she never gave up that "TOMMY" was alive up until the day she passed away and went to see him in heaven. she was buried with a picture of him in her casket. My dad and my uncle ric grew up with him and enjoyed the time they had with him. The family has never forgotten thomas or the other POW/MIA from vietnam or previous wars. PLEASE NEVER FORGET OUR SOLDIERS FROM PAST OR PRESENT WARS !!!LEST WE NEVER FORGET!! ALL GAVE SOME, SOME GAVE ALL!!!
I AM A VETERAN OF DESERT STORM 1990-1991
U.S. ARMY SARGENT
*****************************************
Remembering, Our Lost Brother
"Nail," FAC., Thomas Duckett, lost, in Laos, 12, Dec., 70.
The American Legion Department of Georgia, citizens of Catoosa County, Ringgold, Georgan and veteran's groups honored Major Duckett April 13, 2006 through the dedication of the I-75 Exit 348 Interchange. The Interchange is now the Major Thomas A. Duckett Interchange. A granite marker and a tree of hope were also dedicated.
The program included an Air Force fly-over, the Ringgold High School Band, the Ringgold and Ridgeland JROTC, Vietnam Veteran's Honor Guard, General Ronald Griffith (Ret), the entire Catoosa County Legislative Delegation, most local officials and many citizens. Pete Wheeler, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Veterans Services, was the Master of Ceremonies and Harold Linnenkohl, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Transportation, read the Resolution at the Dedication.
I am from Ringgold, Georgia - Thomas' hometown. I was a cadet in the JROTC program and presided over the ceremony when our JROTC building was dedicated in his name.
I have worn his remembrance band since 1987 and barely a day goes by that I don't acknowledge him. Though I no longer live in Georgia, I try to research any news of him online. I recently found the article that in April 2006 an interchange on Interstate 75 near Ringgold was named for Thomas.
It is an amazing feeling to see others that either know him or also wear his memory on their body. I have never removed his bracelet, nor do I plan to until his remains are returned.
Nikki McNew
Larry Gemma - When the POW/MIA issue heated up I wore Tom's bracelet (for ten years) & wrote his parents, who sent me a photograph of this dashing, handsome USAF jock smiling away as if he was really enjoying himself. I think he was flying the Bronco? His parents wrote on the back of the photo, "Thailand a few days before he went down." Thinking of you.
Larry Gemma, CAPT, USNR (Ret)
********************
A Grave contributor Claude Barnhart has sponsored the memorial for Thomas Duckett.
I also want to thank him for the wonderful picture of Thomas smiling and the other added information.
12/12/2011 - Today, It has been 41 years since Tom Duckett and Owen Skinner were shot down in Laos. Tom was a friend from USAF Officer Training School (OTS), and I consider both my brothers. I have added three pictures to this site, one of Tom taken shortly before he was shot down (provided by Ross & Mary Ellen Ross), and the other two copies of government documents that showed that both Tom and Owen were still considered to be alive in March 1992 (ref. http://www.nationalalliance.org/59/59list.htm ) -- they were just 2 of 59 POW's thought to still be alive.
*****************************************
.
In Memory of ....... Maj. Thomas Allen Duckett.
*** Captain Duckett was a member of the 23rd Tactical Air Support Squadron at Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand. On December 12, 1970, he was the pilot of a Cessna Skymaster Observation Aircraft (O-2A) on a forward air coonntrol mission about 6 mils east on Sepone, Sanammakhet Provinve. Laos, where it was shot down. His remains were not recovered. His name is inscribed on the Courts of the Missing at the Honolulu Memorial.
You may be gone, no longer living on this earth; but you will live on - in the memories of your family and friends. There will always be a part of you living in those who knew you. You will live on because we remember you!
THOMAS ALLEN DUCKETT - Air Force - MAJ - O4
Age: 32
Race: Caucasian
Date of Birth Nov 12, 1946
From: LA GRANGE, GA - Per Military DD1300 Thomas was born in Chattanooga,TN.
Religion: PRESBYTERIAN
Marital Status: Single - Parents: Father, Dennis Durrin Duckett, Born Jan. 12, 1920 (May have re-married - Mildred Vest (Born Sept. 1, 1970)(Dennis) Duckett of Ringgold) at 95 yrs he is still alive and living in Ringgold, GA with Mildred and Mother, Alice L. Duckett, Born est. 1917 and Died April 30, 1994 in Walker, GA at the age of 77 yrs old. Both parents born in Georgia.
* Paternal Grandparents: Wilson E. Duckett, Born March 28, 1885 and Died July 15, 1968 (FAG #98157196) and May T. Carder Duckett, Born May 14, 1890 and Died Dec. 26, 1967, born in Georgia.
***** United States Census, 1940
Name: Alice Duckett
Event Type: Census
Event Date: 1940
Event Place: Militia District 872, Whitfield, Georgia, United States
Gender: Female
Age: 23
Marital Status: Married
Race: White
Relationship to Head of Household: Wife
Birthplace: Georgia
Birth Year (Estimated): 1917
Last Place of Residence: Rural, Catoosa, Georgia
Household Role Gender Age Birthplace
Dennis Duckett Head M 20 Georgia
Alice Duckett Wife F 23 Georgia
***** United States Census, 1930
Name: Dennis D Duckett - YOUR DADDY.........
Event Type: Census
Event Year: 1930
Event Place: Dalton, Whitfield, Georgia, United States
Gender: Male
Age: 10
Marital Status: Single
Race: White
Relationship to Head of Household: Son
Birth Year (Estimated): 1920
Birthplace: Georgia
Father's Birthplace: Georgia
Mother's Birthplace: Georgia
Household Role Gender Age Birthplace
Wilson E Duckett Head M 45 Georgia
May T Duckett Wife F 39 Georgia
Gladys R Duckett Daughter F 19 Georgia
Paul E Duckett Son 14 Georgia - FAG #17847455......
Pauline C Duckett Daughter F 14 Georgia
Dennis D Duckett Son M 10 Georgia - YOUR DAD.....
Katie Evelyn Duckett Daughter F 8 Georgia
***** Tommy, I still have the little valise you bought for me when I went on leave. Two weeks before you went down. You will always be remembered by your brothers from the 23 TASS.
Patrick McCaslin
Added: Aug. 27, 2014
***** Tommy - as we called him was a blond headed All American boy. Tommy was actually from Ringgold, Georgia. He was an only child.
His cousin,Ross Allen
***** On April 13, 2006 the American Legion Department of Georgia and the citizens of Ringgold and Catoosa county, dedicated the I-75 exit 348 interchange to honor Major Thomas A. Duckett, the exit at ringgold, ga has been renamed in honor of THOMAS.
RICK ALLEN - cousin from ringgold, ga.
His tour began on Dec 12, 1970
Casualty was on Jul 27, 1979-Actually on Dec. 12, 1970.
In LZ, LAOS
Hostile, died while missing, FIXED WING - CREW
AIR LOSS, CRASH ON LAND
Body was not recovered
Panel 06W - Line 116
Other Personnel In Incident: Owen G. Skinner (missing)
on December 12, 1970 on a Forward Air Control (FAC) mission over Laos. 1Lt. Thomas A. Duckett and Maj. Owen G. Skinner comprised the crew of an O2A spotter aircraft which departed NKP Airport (NOTE: While Defense Department records indicate that Duckett was the observer, and Skinner the pilot, U.S. Air Force records indicate that Duckett was the pilot. The military occupational specialties (MOS) of both men are classified, and it cannot be determined which was the pilot and which was the observer.)
The A model flown by Duckett and Skinner served the function of marking targets with marking rockets. It was a small, poorly armored aircraft which normally flew unarmed. While the aircraft was over Savannakhet Province, Laos, about 6 miles east southeast of the city of Sepone, it was shot down.
After the aircraft crashed, radio contact was made with 1Lt. Duckett. The limited information available publicly does not reveal whether Skinner also survived the crash of the aircraft, nor does it indicate that any efforts were made to recover the crew.
Family members report, however, that the following day, search aircraft located the aircraft intact on the ground in a small clearing.
There was no sign of fire damage to the aircraft, and parachutes were seen in the area of the crash. For the following two days electronic emergency radio beepers were heard, but could never be pinpointed as they were shifting frequently.
Hostile ground fire and activity prevented a ground search. Both men were declared Missing in Action.
Like many POW/MIA families, they resorted to filing numerous requests of Government agencies through the Freedom of Information Act. One such classified report received by the Duckett family described an American
prisoner fitting Duckett's description who was identified in Laos in February 1974.
Thomas A. Duckett was promoted to the rank of Major and Owen G. Skinner to the rank of Colonel during the period they were maintained Missing in Action.
*************
Thomas mother, Dolly went to Vietnam, laos several times to view crash sites, she never gave up that "TOMMY" was alive up until the day she passed away and went to see him in heaven. she was buried with a picture of him in her casket. My dad and my uncle ric grew up with him and enjoyed the time they had with him. The family has never forgotten thomas or the other POW/MIA from vietnam or previous wars. PLEASE NEVER FORGET OUR SOLDIERS FROM PAST OR PRESENT WARS !!!LEST WE NEVER FORGET!! ALL GAVE SOME, SOME GAVE ALL!!!
I AM A VETERAN OF DESERT STORM 1990-1991
U.S. ARMY SARGENT
*****************************************
Remembering, Our Lost Brother
"Nail," FAC., Thomas Duckett, lost, in Laos, 12, Dec., 70.
The American Legion Department of Georgia, citizens of Catoosa County, Ringgold, Georgan and veteran's groups honored Major Duckett April 13, 2006 through the dedication of the I-75 Exit 348 Interchange. The Interchange is now the Major Thomas A. Duckett Interchange. A granite marker and a tree of hope were also dedicated.
The program included an Air Force fly-over, the Ringgold High School Band, the Ringgold and Ridgeland JROTC, Vietnam Veteran's Honor Guard, General Ronald Griffith (Ret), the entire Catoosa County Legislative Delegation, most local officials and many citizens. Pete Wheeler, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Veterans Services, was the Master of Ceremonies and Harold Linnenkohl, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Transportation, read the Resolution at the Dedication.
I am from Ringgold, Georgia - Thomas' hometown. I was a cadet in the JROTC program and presided over the ceremony when our JROTC building was dedicated in his name.
I have worn his remembrance band since 1987 and barely a day goes by that I don't acknowledge him. Though I no longer live in Georgia, I try to research any news of him online. I recently found the article that in April 2006 an interchange on Interstate 75 near Ringgold was named for Thomas.
It is an amazing feeling to see others that either know him or also wear his memory on their body. I have never removed his bracelet, nor do I plan to until his remains are returned.
Nikki McNew
Larry Gemma - When the POW/MIA issue heated up I wore Tom's bracelet (for ten years) & wrote his parents, who sent me a photograph of this dashing, handsome USAF jock smiling away as if he was really enjoying himself. I think he was flying the Bronco? His parents wrote on the back of the photo, "Thailand a few days before he went down." Thinking of you.
Larry Gemma, CAPT, USNR (Ret)
********************
A Grave contributor Claude Barnhart has sponsored the memorial for Thomas Duckett.
I also want to thank him for the wonderful picture of Thomas smiling and the other added information.
12/12/2011 - Today, It has been 41 years since Tom Duckett and Owen Skinner were shot down in Laos. Tom was a friend from USAF Officer Training School (OTS), and I consider both my brothers. I have added three pictures to this site, one of Tom taken shortly before he was shot down (provided by Ross & Mary Ellen Ross), and the other two copies of government documents that showed that both Tom and Owen were still considered to be alive in March 1992 (ref. http://www.nationalalliance.org/59/59list.htm ) -- they were just 2 of 59 POW's thought to still be alive.
*****************************************
.
*** Captain Duckett was a member of the 23rd Tactical Air Support Squadron at Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand. On December 12, 1970, he was the pilot of a Cessna Skymaster Observation Aircraft (O-2A) on a forward air coonntrol mission about 6 mils east on Sepone, Sanammakhet Provinve. Laos, where it was shot down. His remains were not recovered. His name is inscribed on the Courts of the Missing at the Honolulu Memorial.
You may be gone, no longer living on this earth; but you will live on - in the memories of your family and friends. There will always be a part of you living in those who knew you. You will live on because we remember you!
THOMAS ALLEN DUCKETT - Air Force - MAJ - O4
Age: 32
Race: Caucasian
Date of Birth Nov 12, 1946
From: LA GRANGE, GA - Per Military DD1300 Thomas was born in Chattanooga,TN.
Religion: PRESBYTERIAN
Marital Status: Single - Parents: Father, Dennis Durrin Duckett, Born Jan. 12, 1920 (May have re-married - Mildred Vest (Born Sept. 1, 1970)(Dennis) Duckett of Ringgold) at 95 yrs he is still alive and living in Ringgold, GA with Mildred and Mother, Alice L. Duckett, Born est. 1917 and Died April 30, 1994 in Walker, GA at the age of 77 yrs old. Both parents born in Georgia.
* Paternal Grandparents: Wilson E. Duckett, Born March 28, 1885 and Died July 15, 1968 (FAG #98157196) and May T. Carder Duckett, Born May 14, 1890 and Died Dec. 26, 1967, born in Georgia.
***** United States Census, 1940
Name: Alice Duckett
Event Type: Census
Event Date: 1940
Event Place: Militia District 872, Whitfield, Georgia, United States
Gender: Female
Age: 23
Marital Status: Married
Race: White
Relationship to Head of Household: Wife
Birthplace: Georgia
Birth Year (Estimated): 1917
Last Place of Residence: Rural, Catoosa, Georgia
Household Role Gender Age Birthplace
Dennis Duckett Head M 20 Georgia
Alice Duckett Wife F 23 Georgia
***** United States Census, 1930
Name: Dennis D Duckett - YOUR DADDY.........
Event Type: Census
Event Year: 1930
Event Place: Dalton, Whitfield, Georgia, United States
Gender: Male
Age: 10
Marital Status: Single
Race: White
Relationship to Head of Household: Son
Birth Year (Estimated): 1920
Birthplace: Georgia
Father's Birthplace: Georgia
Mother's Birthplace: Georgia
Household Role Gender Age Birthplace
Wilson E Duckett Head M 45 Georgia
May T Duckett Wife F 39 Georgia
Gladys R Duckett Daughter F 19 Georgia
Paul E Duckett Son 14 Georgia - FAG #17847455......
Pauline C Duckett Daughter F 14 Georgia
Dennis D Duckett Son M 10 Georgia - YOUR DAD.....
Katie Evelyn Duckett Daughter F 8 Georgia
***** Tommy, I still have the little valise you bought for me when I went on leave. Two weeks before you went down. You will always be remembered by your brothers from the 23 TASS.
Patrick McCaslin
Added: Aug. 27, 2014
***** Tommy - as we called him was a blond headed All American boy. Tommy was actually from Ringgold, Georgia. He was an only child.
His cousin,Ross Allen
***** On April 13, 2006 the American Legion Department of Georgia and the citizens of Ringgold and Catoosa county, dedicated the I-75 exit 348 interchange to honor Major Thomas A. Duckett, the exit at ringgold, ga has been renamed in honor of THOMAS.
RICK ALLEN - cousin from ringgold, ga.
His tour began on Dec 12, 1970
Casualty was on Jul 27, 1979-Actually on Dec. 12, 1970.
In LZ, LAOS
Hostile, died while missing, FIXED WING - CREW
AIR LOSS, CRASH ON LAND
Body was not recovered
Panel 06W - Line 116
Other Personnel In Incident: Owen G. Skinner (missing)
on December 12, 1970 on a Forward Air Control (FAC) mission over Laos. 1Lt. Thomas A. Duckett and Maj. Owen G. Skinner comprised the crew of an O2A spotter aircraft which departed NKP Airport (NOTE: While Defense Department records indicate that Duckett was the observer, and Skinner the pilot, U.S. Air Force records indicate that Duckett was the pilot. The military occupational specialties (MOS) of both men are classified, and it cannot be determined which was the pilot and which was the observer.)
The A model flown by Duckett and Skinner served the function of marking targets with marking rockets. It was a small, poorly armored aircraft which normally flew unarmed. While the aircraft was over Savannakhet Province, Laos, about 6 miles east southeast of the city of Sepone, it was shot down.
After the aircraft crashed, radio contact was made with 1Lt. Duckett. The limited information available publicly does not reveal whether Skinner also survived the crash of the aircraft, nor does it indicate that any efforts were made to recover the crew.
Family members report, however, that the following day, search aircraft located the aircraft intact on the ground in a small clearing.
There was no sign of fire damage to the aircraft, and parachutes were seen in the area of the crash. For the following two days electronic emergency radio beepers were heard, but could never be pinpointed as they were shifting frequently.
Hostile ground fire and activity prevented a ground search. Both men were declared Missing in Action.
Like many POW/MIA families, they resorted to filing numerous requests of Government agencies through the Freedom of Information Act. One such classified report received by the Duckett family described an American
prisoner fitting Duckett's description who was identified in Laos in February 1974.
Thomas A. Duckett was promoted to the rank of Major and Owen G. Skinner to the rank of Colonel during the period they were maintained Missing in Action.
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Thomas mother, Dolly went to Vietnam, laos several times to view crash sites, she never gave up that "TOMMY" was alive up until the day she passed away and went to see him in heaven. she was buried with a picture of him in her casket. My dad and my uncle ric grew up with him and enjoyed the time they had with him. The family has never forgotten thomas or the other POW/MIA from vietnam or previous wars. PLEASE NEVER FORGET OUR SOLDIERS FROM PAST OR PRESENT WARS !!!LEST WE NEVER FORGET!! ALL GAVE SOME, SOME GAVE ALL!!!
I AM A VETERAN OF DESERT STORM 1990-1991
U.S. ARMY SARGENT
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Remembering, Our Lost Brother
"Nail," FAC., Thomas Duckett, lost, in Laos, 12, Dec., 70.
The American Legion Department of Georgia, citizens of Catoosa County, Ringgold, Georgan and veteran's groups honored Major Duckett April 13, 2006 through the dedication of the I-75 Exit 348 Interchange. The Interchange is now the Major Thomas A. Duckett Interchange. A granite marker and a tree of hope were also dedicated.
The program included an Air Force fly-over, the Ringgold High School Band, the Ringgold and Ridgeland JROTC, Vietnam Veteran's Honor Guard, General Ronald Griffith (Ret), the entire Catoosa County Legislative Delegation, most local officials and many citizens. Pete Wheeler, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Veterans Services, was the Master of Ceremonies and Harold Linnenkohl, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Transportation, read the Resolution at the Dedication.
I am from Ringgold, Georgia - Thomas' hometown. I was a cadet in the JROTC program and presided over the ceremony when our JROTC building was dedicated in his name.
I have worn his remembrance band since 1987 and barely a day goes by that I don't acknowledge him. Though I no longer live in Georgia, I try to research any news of him online. I recently found the article that in April 2006 an interchange on Interstate 75 near Ringgold was named for Thomas.
It is an amazing feeling to see others that either know him or also wear his memory on their body. I have never removed his bracelet, nor do I plan to until his remains are returned.
Nikki McNew
Larry Gemma - When the POW/MIA issue heated up I wore Tom's bracelet (for ten years) & wrote his parents, who sent me a photograph of this dashing, handsome USAF jock smiling away as if he was really enjoying himself. I think he was flying the Bronco? His parents wrote on the back of the photo, "Thailand a few days before he went down." Thinking of you.
Larry Gemma, CAPT, USNR (Ret)
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A Grave contributor Claude Barnhart has sponsored the memorial for Thomas Duckett.
I also want to thank him for the wonderful picture of Thomas smiling and the other added information.
12/12/2011 - Today, It has been 41 years since Tom Duckett and Owen Skinner were shot down in Laos. Tom was a friend from USAF Officer Training School (OTS), and I consider both my brothers. I have added three pictures to this site, one of Tom taken shortly before he was shot down (provided by Ross & Mary Ellen Ross), and the other two copies of government documents that showed that both Tom and Owen were still considered to be alive in March 1992 (ref. http://www.nationalalliance.org/59/59list.htm ) -- they were just 2 of 59 POW's thought to still be alive.
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