Tribute to Atomic Veteran Tom O. Hodge

Tribute to Sergeant Tom O. Hodge

Branch: Army

Rank: Sergeant (E5)

Role: 62B30 - Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Unit: A Company, 84th Engineer Battalion

Service Period: May 21, 1977 - November 20, 1977

Location of Service: Enewetak Atoll, Marshall Islands

Honoring Sgt. Tom O. Hodge: A Legacy of Dedication and Sacrifice at Enewetak Atoll

Sergeant Tom O. Hodge served with distinction as a heavy equipment mechanic and vehicle operator with the 84th Engineer Battalion during the critical cleanup operations at Enewetak Atoll. His responsibilities included maintaining and repairing the vital equipment and vehicles essential to the battalion's success, ensuring their readiness and reliability in an environment fraught with challenges. Among his most crucial duties was maintaining equipment used by Navy Underwater Demolition Teams (UDTs), particularly those involving C-4 explosives, underscoring the high stakes and technical demands of his role.

Beyond his mechanical expertise, Sgt. Hodge operated a wrecker and bus, providing indispensable support in transporting personnel and equipment across the atoll. His ability to juggle these multiple responsibilities under the harsh conditions of Enewetak is a testament to his versatility and unwavering commitment to the mission. His work ensured that the battalion's operations ran smoothly, contributing directly to the overall success of the environmental restoration efforts on the atoll.

Sgt. Hodge's service at Enewetak was marked by dedication and skill, but it also came with significant personal cost. After his deployment, he developed serious health issues, including skin cancer and a spot on his lungs—conditions that reflect the hazardous environmental factors he encountered during his service. These health challenges serve as a stark reminder of the risks faced by those who work in extreme and dangerous environments, often with lasting consequences.

Today, we honor Sgt. Tom O. Hodge for his exemplary service and the sacrifices he made during his time at Enewetak Atoll. His dedication to maintaining essential military equipment under challenging conditions exemplifies the highest standards of duty and honor. Sgt. Hodge's story is a poignant reminder of the enduring impacts that military service can have on those who dedicate themselves to our country's safety and security, and his legacy continues to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.

Sgt. Tom O. Hodge's commitment to his duties extended beyond the immediate needs of his mission. He embodied the spirit of resilience and perseverance, often going above and beyond to ensure that his equipment and vehicles were not just functional, but optimized for the demanding conditions of the atoll. His tireless work ethic and willingness to tackle any challenge made him a cornerstone of his unit, earning him the respect and admiration of his peers and superiors alike.

Even in the face of significant personal health challenges later in life, Sgt. Hodge remained proud of his service, knowing that his efforts were instrumental in the success of one of the most complex and hazardous military operations of his time. His legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring sacrifices made by our servicemen and women in the pursuit of peace and safety for future generations.