Thomas M. Rascon III

Born in El Paso, Texas, and raised in Fairmont, West Virginia, Thomas M. “TR” Rascon III was the beloved son of Carl and Marybelle Sole. A proud patriot, TR entered the U.S. Army in 1959, embarking on a lifelong journey of service to his country.

As an Army Captain, TR served in the Republic of South Vietnam from August 1969 to August 1970 with B-32, Company A, 5th Special Forces Group. Stationed near the Cambodian border in An Phu, in the Mekong Delta region, he worked closely with indigenous forces as part of counterinsurgency operations and intelligence-gathering missions during one of the most complex phases of the war.

He continued his military service with the West Virginia Army National Guard, retiring in 1987 after distinguished service with the 2nd Battalion, 19th Special Forces Group.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, TR dedicated himself to supporting fellow veterans through his work with the Vietnam Veterans Outreach Centers in Charleston, Huntington, and Parkersburg, WV. He completed his career with the VA in Salem, VA. A tireless advocate, he was instrumental in helping countless veterans across the states secure the benefits they earned and navigate life after military service.

TR was a lifelong fan of the West Virginia University Mountaineers and a devoted supporter of the Hurricane High School Redskins. His volunteer work at Hurricane High School left a lasting mark—notably, his craftsmanship lives on through the totem pole he built, which still stands proudly in the school commons.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Lorraine Rascon Means (d. March 12, 2004); survived by his granddaughter, Megan Cole; great-grandsons, Tyler and Bentley; and great-granddaughter, Journey.

TR is survived by loving wife, Judith "Judy" Rascon; his son, TR Rascon IV (Barb West) of Gaithersburg, Maryland; and granddaughters, Rebecca (22) and Jessica (20).

In his later years, TR retired to North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where he and his wife Judy enjoyed their time together listening to beach music, the Carolina Shag, and cherishing the company of friends.

TR’s legacy of service, compassion, and community involvement will live on in all who knew him.

He will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.