Author

John Henry Thomson retired as a Colonel in the United States Army in 1993 with over 29 years of service. He is a highly decorated combat veteran with service during both Vietnam and the Gulf wars. He has served in airborne and special operations units and has commanded soldiers from platoon to brigade.

Thomson was born in Spokane, Washington. He graduated from Gonzaga University in 1964 and entered the Army as a second lieutenant in the Corps of Engineers. In addition to his Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Gonzaga, he holds a Master of Business Administration from Gannon University. In 1988 he graduated from the Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

During his distinguished military career, Thomson spent over three years in West Africa and lived twelve months in the jungles. He also served as a special operations liaison officer to the Navy; worked with the governments of Spain and Brazil on counter terrorism, mines and explosives; and completed assignments in support of both Delta Force and the CIA. His commands include the 3rd Battalion 39th Infantry—where his troops respectfully referred to him as “Colonel Bad”—and the 136th Engineer Brigade.

Thomson’s military decorations include three awards of the Legion of Merit, the Soldiers Medal for heroism, the Bronze Star Medal, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, two awards of the Meritorious Service Medal, the Joint Meritorious Service Medal, two awards of the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Humanitarian Service Medal, plus skill badges and numerous service ribbons.

Following his Army retirement, Thomson worked as a facilities director for two large school districts and is currently President of J. Henry Enterprise, Inc. which does contract work for homeland security.

Thomson is married to his high school sweetheart Linda Headley of Spokane, Washington. They have one son, Timothy and wife Tara, and one granddaughter. The Thomsons live in western Washington state.

Trivia question: Check out the author’s civilian photo—he has something that is a key element in the story. Can you find it? (hint: check out the home page) Still need a little help? Click here.