Robert "Cajun Bob" Thoms

75, died October 1, 2019 in Wasilla, AK.

Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, he moved to Alaska in 2001, eventually settling in Wasilla. He joined the Marine Corps at 17 and proudly served at US Embassies in Nigeria, Congo and Greece before serving two Vietnam tours in 1967-1968, where he fought in the Battle of Hue’ with Delta 1/5. In Hue’, he led an attack on the heavily defended Dong Ba Tower. An explosion blew him and his men off the tower, but he returned the next day with his Marines to recapture it. A Life Magazine cover photo captured Bob on the tower and the harrowing battle scene. It inspired a nation at a time of extreme social strife. For his efforts, Bob was awarded the Silver Star, a Bronze Star and six Purple Hearts. After returning home, he taught Strategies and Tactics at Quantico, Va. and served briefly as a deputy sheriff in Baton Rouge before moving to Alaska. Throughout his life he served his country and fellow veterans as both a paid and volunteer VA Counselor, living the ethos of the Marine Corps--honor, courage, and commitment. Bob’s favorite quotes were, “Life is good. I ain’t had a bad day since ‘68,” and “I once walked with Kings,” by Lefty and Donny Meier of “Dying Delta” 1/5.

He is survived by his wife, Cindy, his Delta 1/5 brothers and countless friends.

The burial is October 20, 2019 at 2 p.m., Sacred Heart Cemetery on Bill’s Way off Edlund Road, followed by a 3 p.m. Celebration of Life at the VFW Post 9365 at 301 E. Lake View Ave, Wasilla.

Friends may gather from noon until 1p.m before burial at Janssen’s Mat-Su Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, please contribute to VFW Post 9365.