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John Olson ©Stars and StripesHue, South Vietnam, February, 1968: Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Bob Thoms assesses the situation before leading an assault on the Dong Ba Tower, considered a crucial objective for U.S. forces in the fierce battle for the city of Hue. Thoms, known as "Cajun Bob," died October 1 in Alaska at age 75. His commander at Hue, Myron Harrington, remembered him as "a very brave Marine and a wonderful leader ... one of those folks that showed up at the right time at the right place and did the right thing." Thoms was awarded the Silver Star for his actions at Hue, and six Purple Hearts for wounds suffered during his two tours in Vietnam.

RELATED MATERIAL: Bob Thoms' obituary from Stars and Stripes.