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Thomas Heath collection

Thomas Heath collection

Descriptive Summary

Title: Thomas Heath collection
Creator: Heath, Vivian
Inclusive Dates: 1938-1953
Language(s): English
Extent: 1.4 Linear Feet 1 document box, 1 oversized box
Collection Number: ms2263
Repository: Hargrett Library

Collection Description

Historical Note

First Lt. Tommy Heath served in Europe in World War II and was killed in the Korean War. Heath was born in Tonkawa, Oklahoma in 1918 and graduated from high school there in 1938. He graduated from Northern Oklahoma Junior College in 1940. He worked as an athletic coach and later an ROTC instructor at Mercer University in Macon. He married Vivian Deen of Alma, Georgia in 1947. Heath saw action at the Normandy beachhead and earned his commission while in Europe. In November 1950 he was sent overseas and was wounded on February 17, 1951. He chose to return to active duty and was killed on Heartbreak Ridge on September 21, 1951.

Scope and Content

The collection consists of a scrapbook compiled by Vivian Heath which includes most of the non-official records of First Lt. Tommy Heath's stay in Korea, as well as earlier clippings and keepsakes.


Administrative Information

Preferred Citation

Thomas Heath collection, ms2263, Hargrett Rare Book and Manuscript Library, The University of Georgia Libraries.

Finding Aid Publication

Finding aid prepared on: 2009 July 31.


Related Materials and Subjects

Subject Terms

Clippings (information artifacts)
Heath, Thomas, -1951
Korean War, 1950-1953 -- Casualties -- Georgia.
Mercer University -- Faculty
Military records.
Souvenirs.
World War, 1939-1945 -- Veterans.

Series Descriptions and Folder Listing

 
boxfolder
11Claim reports
blank
 
12Discharges
 
13I.G. Check Lists
 
14Military records, 1946-1949
 
15Military records, 1950
 
16Military records, 1951
 
17Military records - to Vivian Heath, 1951-1953
 
18Miscellaneous
 
19Pamphlet - for next of kin
 
110Scrapbook with photocopies
 
111Wallet with identification cards, 1950
 
112Wallet with identification and effects, 1951
 
box
2Army uniform - tan (1)
 
2Purple heart medals in boxes (2)
 
2Silver star medal in box (1)
 
2U.S. flag (1)
 
2American defense medal (1)
 
2Lieutenant's bar (1)
 
2Campaign ribbons (2)
 
2Small medals - unknown (2)
 
Frame with two pictures of man in military uniform