Thomas F Durbin

Thomas Frederick Durbin was born Nov. 8, 1945 in San Diego, Calif. to Luther and Marion Durbin. The 5th of seven children, he grew up in Escondido, Calif. and attended St. Mary’s school from first thru 8th grades. He attended Escondido High school, graduating in 1963.

Tom spent two years at Palomar College in San Marcos, transferring to San Diego State, where he majored in Veterinary Medicine. Looking for adventure, Tom applied to and was accepted at the University of New South Wales in Australia, hoping to continue his studies in Veterinary Medicine.

Plans of schooling in Australia were put on hold when he was drafted into the Army in January 1967; he reported for basic training at Fort Ord, CA on January 24, 1967. After basic training, he transferred to Fort Polk, Leesville, Louisiana for 2 months of jungle training.

Private First Class, Tom Durbin began his tour of South Viet Nam, Quang Tin Province in June of 1967 as a Radio Telephone Operator for Charlie Company in the14th Infantry Division. He was mortally wounded by enemy fire September 21, 1967, while relaying forward essential information to his Platoon Leader.

Although he was frequently exposed to automatic weapons fire, his communications to his Platoon leader were contributions of immeasurable value to his unit’s performance in battle.

PFC Thomas Durbin was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with “ V” Service, the Purple Heart and the National Defense Medal, among others.

He is also the namesake of the California DAV, Chapter #70 in Escondido.

Tom’s large circle of childhood and high school friends recall him fondly, and he is lovingly remembered by his large extended family.