Bernard L. "Ben" Thompson

Bernard L. “Ben” Thompson of St. Albans was born and raised in Jamaica, New York. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and served one tour of duty in Vietnam with the 559th Tactical Fighter Squadron as a Weapons Specialist/Heavy Ordinance.

In 1980, Mr. Thompson joined the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States at Proctor-Hopson Post #1896 in Jamaica, became a life member the following year, and was elected Post Commander from 1983 to 1985. Each year, he received the high honor of “All State Post Commander.” Currently, Mr. Thompson serves as Vice President of the Post’s Memorial Association, and since 1985, he has held the office of Post Quartermaster.

In addition, Mr. Thompson was elected Queens County Council Commander from 1986 to 1987 and District #1 Commander for the term 1997 to 1998. On the State level, he has held various chairmanships and served on various committees, and in 2001, was elected to the high office of State Commander. He has served on various national committees and as the Chairman of the Eastern States Conference. In 2009, Mr. Thompson was elected to serve a two-year term on the National Council of Administration as the National Council Member representing the Department of New York.

Mr. Thompson is a life member of the 369th Veterans Association, AMVETS and Disabled American Veterans, a member of the Air Force Association, and on the Board of Directors of the New York Military Ministry & Fellowship Group. He is currently employed by the U.S. Department of State, New York Despatch Agency where he holds the position of Despatch Agent of the United States.

“Big Ben” would like to be known as a comrade who is honored to serve his fellow veterans and his community