~ Thomas E. Paradine ~ Thomas E. Paradine was elected as National Vice-Commander of The American Legion, October 15, 1951 at the 33rd National Convention in Miami, Florida. Joining The Legion in 1946 he was a Past Commander, (1948-49) of the Schenley Post, No. 1190 and was awarded a Gold Card, January 25, 1950. Becoming a Life Member of The American Legion.
Born March 12, 1911 in New York City, his parents were John A. and Mary Garvey Paradine. He married Marian Frances , the daughter of George and Catherine Morsony. They have four sons Roger; Mark; Eric and Justin. Educated in the New York Schools, he attended Fordham University and received an AB and LLB Degree.
Thomas entered the U. S. Army in October 1940, serving for six years, attaining the rank of Lt. Colonel. Serving in the Infantry in the Pacific Theater he received many Medals and Letters of Commendation and he was discharged in July 1946.
Thomas was a devote Catholic and served his Church and community in a variety of ways. He was a member of Cardinal Spellman‘s Committee of the Laity. Active in Catholic Charities for the Diocese of Brooklyn. Knight, Sovereign Military Order of Malta in the United States. Knight of the Holy Sepulcher. Had the privilege of two special Papal Audiences. On the Entertainment Committee, Mercy Hospital, Nassau County, Long Island. Active in dramatic and music organizations in Long Island. Active member of the U. S. Army Reserve, with the rank of Lt. Col. He was active in many other organizations, for church and community.
Thomas was awarded the Medal of Achievement in 1947 by his Post. He was chairman or a member of various committees, National, Department and County. National Chairman, American Legion Tide of Toys Program. Chairman, National Commander’s Dinner Committee, 1950 to 1954. Selected by The American Legion to represent the American veterans at the dedication ceremonies of monument to the War Dead, Bastogne, Belgium. Selected to present His Excellency, the President of France, M. Vincent Auriel, with The American Legion Distinguished Service Medal, summer of 1951. Many speaking assignments on Radio, Television and at National Organizations on behalf of The American Legion. Chairman, National Security Commission, 1952-53. Chairman, National Public Relations Commission, 1953-54. Chairman, Distinguished Guests, 1954. Department Chairman, Public Relations Committee, 1954-55. Chairman, Special Activities Committee, 1953-54.
Thomas has received numerous Awards, Medals, Citations and Letters of Commendation from the United States Government, Foreign Leaders and Governments, his Church, State of New York,
