Hugh Thompson Jr.

Hugh Clowers Thompson Jr. was born on April 15, 1943, and served as a distinguished United States Army officer. He held the rank of warrant officer in the 123rd Aviation Battalion of the 23rd Infantry Division. Thompson is best known for his courageous actions during the Mỹ Lai massacre on March 16, 1968, where he played a pivotal role in halting the atrocities committed against the South Vietnamese villagers of Sơn Mỹ.

During the tragic events of the massacre, Thompson, alongside his crew members Glenn Andreotta and Lawrence Colburn, utilized their Hiller OH-23 Raven helicopter to intervene. They bravely threatened and obstructed American soldiers from Company C, 1st Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment, thereby saving numerous Vietnamese civilians. Thompson's commitment to reporting the ongoing atrocities was unwavering, as he communicated the horrors he witnessed to his superiors, although initial responses were tragically inadequate.

In 1970, Thompson testified against those responsible for the massacre, leading to charges against twenty-six military personnel, including notable figures like William Calley. Despite his bravery, Thompson faced severe backlash from the military and public, resulting in personal struggles such as post-traumatic stress disorder, alcoholism, and divorce. Nevertheless, he continued his service in the Army until November 1, 1983, after which he pursued a career as a helicopter pilot in the Southeastern United States.

In a poignant recognition of his valor, Thompson, along with his crew, was awarded the Soldier's Medal in 1998, thirty years after the massacre. This honor, the Army's highest for bravery not involving direct enemy contact, was a testament to their heroism. Thompson and Colburn later returned to Sơn Mỹ to meet with survivors, fostering a sense of reconciliation and remembrance.