Tribute to Tom Creek

Lance Corporal Thomas E. Creek 7 April, 1950 – 13 February, 1969 Palo Duro High School Class of 1968 Although Tom was not Class of '70, it is fitting that our class honor his memory as one of our own, as a Don. Tom enlisted in the Marine Corps January 1968, and by July of 1968 was serving as a Marine rifleman in the Republic of Viet Nam. On 13 February, 1969, Tom was killed in action, sacrificing his life to save the lives of several of his Marine comrades. His selfless act of valor was recognized through the award of the Medal of Honor. Many graduates of Palo Duro High School have served our nation and society as members of the armed services, law enforcement, first responders, or myriad of other public service positions. Some have perhaps sacrificed their lives or suffered injury in their pursuit of service, and we honor them. Tom Creek's dedication, loyalty, and selflessness, however, may best epitomize the character traits and principles that generations of teachers and counselors have tried to impart to us as Dons and Donnas. Let us all honor the memory of Tom Creek by striving each day to live up to those traits.