[Webmaster's Note: Chief Thomas was the lead petty officer on my 1960-61 detachment to the USS Shangri La. As the maintenance chief, he received all of the complaints and had the huge responsibility of keeping the RF-8s flying. He was liked by all and I remember him joing us in the crew's compartment. He enjoyed playing cards with the guys.]
Granddad went to work for Lockheed in Marietta, Georgia, after he retired and died in a car wreck on July 11, 1968. He is buried in Marietta National Cemetery.
I was only two years old when Clyde died, so I don't have any memories of him, just these photographs and some family stories. I appreciate you sharing your knowledge of him; it means a lot to me. Another family story is that on some weekends he worked on racecars at Daytona with Lee Petty. One of my uncle recalls how Lee Petty would come to the house sometimes and tell tall tales with granddad.
I would like to purchase a copy of your book on the squadron during the Cuban Missile Crisis when it is available. I often show the Kevin Costner movie to my college students but until I found your website I had no idea my grandfather was so involved.
Cordially,
David Henson Slay Ph.D., Grandson
Chief's Initiation circa 1960--Chief Thomas 2nd from left.
Other photos on "Faces of VFP-62" Page 13
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