Background
Thomas was born on 20 September 1918 in Ontario, Oregon.
Thomas was born on 20 September 1918 in Ontario, Oregon.
Thomas enlisted in the United States. Marine Corps Reserve on 10 September 1941 and was appointed air cadet on 15 October 1941. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant on 17 April 1942. While serving in the Southwest Pacific Theater during World World War II, Thomas contributed to the sinking of an Imperial Japanese Navy cruiser and destroyer.
He was killed in action at Guadalcanal during the Guadalcanal campaign on 18 September 1942 while launching an aggressive attack on Japanese warships.
Thomas posthumously received the Distinguished Flying Cross. The citation read in part: “..for heroism and extraordinary achievement as a pilot..His indomitable fighting spirit was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States. Naval Service.” The United States Navy destroyer escort United States Ship Leland E. Thomas (Delaware-420) was named in Thomas"s honor. She was commissioned on 19 June 1944 and served until May 1946.
