Thomas Stephens was born in Niagra Falls, NY in 1959. He joined the Army via the Delayed Entry System in 1976 and entered the service upon graduating from LaSalle High School in 1977. He left active duty in 1984 and joined the Alabama National Guard shortly thereafter, retiring from the military in 2010 with 30 years of military service.

He worked in his family’s business from 1984 till 1989. He also worked for the City of Andalusia as the Landfill Manager, retiring with 33 years of employment.

His assignments included overseas tours in Korea and Germany and mobilizations to Anniston Army Depot and Iraq.

Thomas’s awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with M device, Driver and Mechanic Badge.

He is currently retired and enjoys hunting and fishing.

Thomas joined the VFW in 2008, holding multiple positions at Post and District levels. He served as the Red Level VFW Post 4388 Commander from 2010 until 2023 and is currently the District 7 Commander.