Eichler, Thomas “Buzzy”

Thomas “Buzzy” Eichler

May 10, 1940 – October 7, 2024

Thomas “Buzzy” Eichler; U.S. Marine Corp Vietnam Veteran and Ret. Chicago Police Sergeant; beloved husband of Beverly (nee, Sokoloski); loving son of the late Tom and Mary Eichler; dear brother of Garnet (late Bill), Bill (Joanne), Dennis (Pai), Karen (late Larry), Bob, the late Donald and the late David; fond brother-in-law of Shirley Murawski and Walter Sokoloski; also, cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Tom was a proud Marine, and he fiercely fought for his country in Vietnam. A Chicago native son, Tom enlisted in the USMC in 1958 and served until 1964, spending 6 years in Infantry in a Weapons Platoon. He re-enlisted in 1966 and served until 1968, assigned to Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 26th Marines in Vietnam. He served as Weapons Platoon Sergeant as a Corporal on Hill 861a at Khe Sanh during the Siege. Tom was wounded in action on 5 Feb 1968 when the NVA overran their positions. He was awarded a Silver Star for actions on the same date for aiding in repulsing the attack and carrying 3 wounded Marines to safety.

Tom was discharged in 1968 as a Sergeant, joined the Chicago Police Department, and served until retirement in 2003. He left the department as one of the most highly decorated officers of all time. Four of the awards were for saving lives.

He was the recipient of a Silver Star, Bronze Star and Purple Heart. Tom retired from the Chicago Police Department as Sergeant with numerous commendations for his outstanding performance. He spent his retirement remodeling his house and with a hammer and a nail in his hand he was ready to assist with his expertise.

Thomas Eichler devoted many years and much of his time to the Khe Sanh Veterans Association. Tom joined the Khe Sanh Veterans Association in 1985 and has served the Organization for many years bringing together this brotherhood of men and their families through a magazine, a directory, annual reunions. He also served as president, treasurer, and editor of the “Red Clay” magazine. His passing left some very big shoes to fill but Tom wanted the organization to survive. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and fellow Khe Sanh Veterans Association members.