Condolences

• August 14, 2026

  Cameron Matheson

  It was my good fortune to have been assigned to the 509th ABCT (Italy) when General Needham was the battalion commander. He was quite a distinctive individual with his accent, his penchant for being ever present in the battalion area, and his ability to run (and run like hell he did), even with his having been wounded in the calf during his Vietnam service. Of my battalion commanders: Jesse Johnson, Buck Kernan, Robert Wagner, and Thomas Needham (all highly reputable officers), I preferred the leadership of LTC. Needham. Simply more involved in monitoring the development and training of those under his command. Never encountered anyone that was like him after leaving the 509th. A memory that I recall of him is his striding into the Bravo Company barracks, and moving past the CQ, and writing on the board in large letters: "Football has priority!" This he did after multiple players on the Geronimo Football team received pushback for their being TDY and playing football, rather than attending training in the field. A moment of hilarity in my eyes. He was the best, and I shall recall him as such. All The Way!

• August 13, 2026

  Geoff Blake

  Spent 8 years at Bragg and there is no other GO synonymous with Fort Bragg than Gen Mike Needham...I never met him but his name is quick to come to mind when I think of my time at Bragg...he was most respected and admired from afar..for me Gen Needham will never be forgotten..a soldiers soldier..RIP sir..

• August 01, 2026

  CPT (Ret.) Howard E. Franklin Jr.

  I served under MG Needham when he was the 1/509 Airborne Infantry commander in Vicenza, Italy. My duties involved Alcohol & Drug Control so I worked closely with him periodically. He was the toughest & fairest person I have ever known. He was one of the reasons I worked for the Army for 40 years & decided to go from Enlisted to Officer rank. I am so sorry for the family for the loss of such a man & soldier.

• July 31, 2026

  Mike Kendall

  I had the privilege of being Tom's commander in Laos when he headed the full accounting task force. Tom had an extremely challenging mission with many organizations and people actively working against him. His inexhaustible energy, demanding high standards, and genuine concern for everyone involved was the key to providing closure to so many families. It was the most meaningful assignment in my career; my time with Tom was also unique daily lessons in authentic leadership that are still invaluable to me today. I will always remember being at the Honolulu Airport when my tour finished to board my flight home only to find Tom there at the gate for a heartfelt final sendoff. Classic Tom. We remained close friends thereafter, and I always enjoyed our periodic calls to reminisce. As with so many, I will truly miss him and have been blessed to know and serve with him. My sincere condolences to his family. Rest in peace. Mike Kendall

• July 30, 2026

  Ray Drummond

  Gen Tom Needham was one of the finest Officers I ever had the pleasure to serve with back in 1972-1975. May God Bless and keep him Col (Ret) Ray Drummond (10 years of proud service inThe 82d Airborne )

• July 28, 2026

  Stan Stricklen

  Maj. "Hawk" Needham as I knew him in 1978 was my first Battalion XO in 2/505 Abn in the 82d. He was larger than life for a 2d Lt. He always treated us young officers with utmost respect. As a side duty he was also OIC of the Saturdays School of the Soldier for 3d Bde and would run those soldiers that had gotten in to trouble out to Nijmegen DZ and back. He loved to run. Later as a senior Cpt. My unit was mobilized and we were attached to the 4th ID where he was the deputy as an MG and our Separate Armor Brigade was attached and reported to him while at miserable Ft Hood. He was a great leader, mentor and friend. We talked several times a year and recently I had sent him a note about CSM Forbes passing who was our CSM in 2/505. He will be missed and I am thankful to have known him all these years. Our condolences and prayers.

• July 28, 2026

  Christine McNeill-Matteson

  We served in Alaska together. It was an honor to work with him ,as well as become friends as time went on. His dedication to the Military and the Military Lifestyle was always ever present. We all departed Alaska, but our friendship did not depart, we remained friends. We talked often to make sure he was doing ok. What a warrior, both in the Military and his health. His humor kept you from knowing how severe his health battles were when you talked. One of my most treasured moments was on New Years Day in Alaska (He lived across from us) , when he fell out for a New Years Run with me. I was honored, a memorable time , a memorable friend of which we will miss tremendously. Run free now Tom, you earned it and a whole nation and every friend, thanks you. Christine McNeill-Matteson and Matt Matteson

• July 27, 2026

  Paul walsh

  I grew up next to Tom in Milton. I was a child and he was serving the Country. On leave when he was in Milton we played a lot of pick up baseball games with my brothers and I. He was a guy we all looked up to. Kind and generous with his time. I reconnected with him in the last few years. We caught up on his life and mine. I had traveled a lot to Vietnam and am a fan of history. We had a lot in common. His stories captivated me. He is missed. Paul Walsh Milton, Massachusetts

• July 26, 2026

  Mel Richmond

  I had the privilege to serve with then-LTC Tom Needham in the 1st Battalion, 509th Infantry (ABCT) for almost three years, and with then MG Needham in Joint Task Force Full Accounting as the Detachment 2 (Hanoi) commander. There is nobody with whom I served who shaped my career and life more than Tom Needham. Mentor, friend, and role model. He served his country and his soldiers with distinction like no other. All the Way, Sir!! Mel Richmond

• July 26, 2026

  Thomas Grow

  What a guy and a great paratrooper! So many great (and some very funny ones) memories of "Nuk'em Needham". He was a warrior through and through. I'm grateful I got to serve under him in Vicenza and Bragg. Rest in Peace, Sir. Tom G.

• July 26, 2026

  M. Taft

  Tom loved following sports, particularly hockey and had season tickets for BC and New Hampshire. There were at least 2 or 3 weekends when he attended 5 games! He also enjoyed playing golf with dear friends and new friends. He will be greatly missed. M. Taft

• July 26, 2026

  Michael Bottorff

  He was my Bn. Commander in Vicenza, Italy, who always led from the front. Great man and leader, and we all had to live up to his standards, which brought out the best you. He noticed everything, and while he was never shy when someone would mess up, he also wrote thousands of letters to commend a job well done. I had my arm broken when we were in Belgium, and he was the first to sign my cast. I talked with him probably 10 years ago... and it was a great 30 minute conversation, and we all knew how much he loved his men. The world lost a great courageous man. See you at the rally point sir

• July 25, 2026

  Rick MacDonald and Mary Eisenhauer

  We have lived directly across the street from Tom for the past 11 years. He was quiet, but loved to stop in the street or come to the house to tell stories, many about the neighborhood but also about his military experiences. He spoke with fondness about the many soldiers he had served with over the years. Behind the outward gruffness was a kind and generous man. He had started sending us a huge poinsettia every December. Glad we had the opportunity to know Major General Needham. Thank you for your service and rest in peace.

• July 24, 2026

  Dave Mcsween

  What a Soldier and leader he was . General Needham was legendary for setting standards and leading from the front. Does Needham know? I think he knew everything! RIP Sir! Dave McSween

• July 24, 2026

  Hon. Brian R. Merrick

  My condolences to brother W. Paul Needham and the entire family. 🙏🙏🙏

• July 24, 2026

  Bill Brophy III

  General Tom Needham ~ a great leader, mentor and friend. I was fortunate to serve with him at Fort Bragg and in Alaska. He was tough but fair. His most important mission was taking care of soldiers and their families. He led from the front, never expecting soldiers to do something that he wouldn't do himself. His handwriting was impeccable - an artwork as impressive as his character and quest for perfection. His handwritten notes were always clear, concise, and inspiring; they remain treasures to this day. Tom Needham's challenge to be the first to arrive at the parachute rally point on the DZ has had life-long impact on my life well beyond that physical task. I will miss our annual conversations at Christmas time. I consider myself blessed to have served with and known General Tom Needham. Bill Brophy, Colonel, retired

• July 24, 2026

  Richard Marchant

  My deepest sympathy to the Needham family. MG Tom Needham was an extraordinary leader, officer and person. From 1992 to 1994, I had the good fortune to serve as his J3 Operations Officer in Joint Task Force Full Accounting (POW/MIA mission). Because of Tom Needham, it was the assignment I am most proud of. A man of action, he was mission focused, dedicated and enthusiastic. He was committed to finding answers on POWs/MIAs and bringing closure to families of lost servicemen. A man of strong faith, Tom often visited the Catholic Church while in Hanoi. I admired him and have never served with a better leader. Rich Marchant

• July 24, 2026

  Maury Needham

  Rest in peace General. Maury Needham

• July 23, 2026

  Joan Lyons mikch

  Tom was my brother Tim's best friend growing up in Milton. As a 12 yr younger sibling of my brother I must confess a crush on Tim Needham. I know how important his friendship was to my brother. Sadly I will be on vacation and not able to attend his services. RIP my brother❤️💕

• July 23, 2026

  Timothy F P Lyons Jr

  Tom was my best friend and God father to my son Tim. Tom he came down the hill at the townie and asked if he could play ball with us and that's how our friendship began .{ he was 13 and I was 15} Trough the good times and the bad times he was always there. Over time he became a wonderful friend to my children Maryann, Kara and Tim.He will be greatly missed. He was very thoughtful to my father Dr Lyons and many times when I wasn't around he would go to my home and have, as he said, many thoughtful conversations. His attention to his mother boarded on saintly.His attention and love to my children and wives was beyond friend ship, When he got sick all he could do was find the best medical advice and fight on!!!! He rarely complained and just did all he could to improve his situation. he never quit and just trod on to the next issue. he always talked to me about Vicenza and the wonderful people he served with and ALWAYS stayed in touch with them over the years, He was a GREAT friend,pal. His death leaves great Hole in my life. Love you Tom Amen and God bless.

• July 23, 2026

  Julius Coats

  My condolences to the Needham family. General Needham was one of the most dedicated officers that I have ever served with. He not only was my Bosss, he was a great friend and mentor as well. Dedication to duty was a hallmak of him

• July 23, 2026

  Karen Tsiantas

  Farwell to a leader we all revered and enjoyed serving under. After my interview with MG Needham and Colonel Bill Frizzel at JTF-FA, I told the senior General Unrestricted Line Detailer I was not interested in the job as I would not be the J1, but the assistant; she replied, "they are called orders, lieutenant, not invitations". So, up the hill I went to the JTF-FA reluctantly and within a few months, I was the J1. I can still hear MG Needam screaming my name in with his Massachusetts accent, "Kah-ren!". After he took one of the intell officers (LT James "the Biggsman" Biggs) with him on a trip to Southeast Asia, I bugged him to take me on a trip and I accompanied him on his first strip after the US lifted the trade embargo on Vietnam. I have great stories and memories. JTF-FA Headquarters was a special place and the entire command had great people. Our military linguists were native speakers who had incredible family stories of survival and escape from the countries we were sending them back to. (Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam). MG Needham and I stayed connected over the years-I was faithful in mailing him his yearly birthday card and Xmas card. A few years ago, when home in Newburyport, MA visiting my family and in Exeter having coffee with a friend, I called him and dropped by for a visit; grateful that I was able to see him. To his nieces: I saw every piece of jewelry he bought you in Bangkok, Thailand from Venus Jewelers. I hope you wear it all and remember your uncle was. Farewell and Following Seas to a great leader. May his memory be everlasting. CAPT Karen Tsiantas, USN (Ret)

• July 22, 2026

  Chaplain (COL) Paul Vicalvi

  I served as a chaplain in Vicenza under MG Needham. He was a tough yet humble commander. He always wanted the best for his troops and worked diligently to train us for any mission we were called to. One year he accompanied me and 50 troopers to Lourdes, France for a military pilgrimage. He was a man of consistent Christian faith and he set a wonderful example of a man of devoted Christian piety. He was a friend to the end. Thank you, Sir, for sharing your life with us. RIP!

• July 21, 2026

  Terry Jones

  I had the privilege to serve as an infantry platoon leader under MG (then CPT) Thomas Needham in Vietnam in 1967 and 1968. We both were medevac-ed out of the field on March 3, 1968. He was literally the "old man". He was 25 and older than the rest of us. He cared for the men. He ensured that mundane tasks (change your socks, sleeves rolled down at sunset because of malaria, carrying the required minimum amount of ammunition, etc.) were performed for the benefit of the men. He excelled at everything from patrolling to where to dig in. He was experienced, smart, and decisive when we made contact. Every man in the company had a well based confidence that we had a great company commander. He was by far the best leader I have encountered in life. He always asked when we talked how other D Company men were doing. He was the best commander at the only time in my life it counted. I will miss him. Terry Jones

• July 20, 2026

  Steve Kersey

  I was aide de camp for General Needham when he was ADC (OPS) at 4th ID. He was direct in his guidance, clear in his message, and I have never served with a better leader in my careers, both military and civilian. RIP, Sir! "Run Far, Dig Deep, Look Alike". Steve Kersey LTC, Army (retired)

• July 20, 2026

  Corinne Payette-Raftery

  I met Tom as a new college grad in September of 2001. I was working part time at Synergy Health and Fitness where Tom spent hours each day working out. The staff always looked forward to seeing him and we marveled at how he could so easily spend 3 hours at a time on the stationary bike. He would laugh and say it was easy when he was talking to his friends. We continued our friendship over the years, speaking several times a month over the phone and through email, sprinkled in with some in person visits when I could make it to NH. He was always quick to offer advice and more than once reminded me that I could do anything I set my mind to. He was also great at reminding me at how far I had come in moments where things felt like they were at a standstill. Tom was a truly remarkable person. I deeply value his friendship over the last 25 years. He will be truly missed by all who were lucky enough to know him. Corinne Payette-Raftery

• July 20, 2026

  Scott West

  I had the privilege to work for MG Needham in Europe, Alaska and Fort Bragg. He was easy to read. He was always laser focused on training hard, achieving the highest standards and taking care of Soldiers, especially single Soldiers. Once I figured that out he was easy to work for, no games, no mysteries, just straight up Soldiering. Thank you General for that and for your courageous service to our nation. RIP, Airborne!

• July 19, 2026

  Red Blackerby

  MG (CPT) Needham was my Company Commander in C/1st/503rd/173rd Airborne Brigade in 1969-70. He was an amazing officer and a true gentleman. It is an honor to have served with him! R.I.P. Sir!! AATW! Red Blackerby

• July 18, 2026

  William Habeeb

  Gen Needham was an incredible officer and leader who set an example for me that helped shape my career. I worked for him as a young captain at joint task force full accounting at Camp Smith, Hawaii. He was a straight shooter with high standards. You knew where you stood with him. He got the best out of his people and made you want to strive to do your best. If he complimented you, he meant it. I admire him greatly. He will be missed. My condolences to the Needham family. Lt Col Bill Habeeb.

• July 18, 2026

  Rhonda Murphy

  We met at the American Red Cross Fort Bragg/Pope 82ABN Corp Station chairwoman summer youth program awards ceremonies; introduced the speaker. His secretary, Carol, something came up, and briefly. MG Needham jumped right here from friendship; not he stays, photo opportunity, Alist invitations for Christmas party. I never met my baby Fort Bragg Boy Scouts cake walk; I was divorced and complininggood men substitute father. He asked for an address, and MG Needham stood in a success, and plus he bought cakes for fundraisers. The last time its 82 airborne breaking ground at hospital Womack Army Center. Now retired with civilians the respectful and loved this country. My thoughts and prayers for family. Gentle and distinguished. Rest in peace, you served well. MG Need ham "eagle eye" from enlisted soldiers to officers. Farewell Tom

• July 18, 2026

  Carol Fiore

  Beloved neighbor and Friend Tom will be missed and in our prayers every Christmas as we recall dinners and conversations shared Sincerely. Carol and Russ Fiore

• July 18, 2026

  Colette and Bill Watkins

  We met Tom while stationed in Alaska – he was the Brigade Commander, my husband was a Company Commander, and I worked in civil service on post. Tom was friends with the COL who led my organization, and he would frequently stop by my desk to get the "lowdown" on what was happening in his Brigade – he was trying to be surreptitious, but I figured him out! We exchanged Christmas cards for many years and ran into him a couple of times after we left Alaska. We eventually lost touch until my husband contacted Lawson Magruder (who had been his Battalion Commander), and he provided Tom's mailing address. We sent him a letter, he called back, and that started an over two year relationship that turned an "acquaintanceship" into a close friendship. We talked almost weekly, mostly just shooting the breeze, and we greatly enjoyed the interactions. When all is said and done, the true value of a person's life is how they are remembered. Tom was one of the greats; we will miss him, and it was an honor and a privilege to have known him. Colette and Bill Watkins

• July 18, 2026

  Mike Sullivan

  Thank you for your service to our country General Needham. Rest in peace.

• July 18, 2026

  James L Growney

  Proud to have served under and been led by then LTC Needham with 1/509 ABCT, Vicenza Italy!!! Delta Battery, 1982-1984. Best unit in the Army! Rip Sir

• July 18, 2026

  COL (R) Richard Allenbaugh

  MG Needham was a positive, can-do, effective, attentive Deputy Commanding General of XVIII Airborne Corps, Ft Bragg, when I served with him and under his command as one of my raters as a Battalion Commander. He served our Army and country well. God bless you MG Needham.

• July 18, 2026

  Lorraine Butler

  He is now resting in peace

• July 17, 2026

  Col. Jerome Watson

  I met Col. Tom Needham for the first time when he arrived to assume the XVIII Airborne Corps G-3 position after his departure from Alaska. The G-3 Staff was briefing him on all the related G-3 activities so he could be well versed on the current Corps op-tempo. As the Chief of Joint Exercises, I briefed him on the traditional Joint Exercise Program like Bright Star, Solid Shield. etc., and a new program with the USAF MAC IG called Sand Eagle that were monster air packages. Col Needam asked only one question of me: "How long had I been the Chief of Joint Exercises?" Responding, '13+ months' and he stopped his line of questioning. Three days later, he assigned me to be his Deputy G-3. What an opportunity to work and develop with a legendary Army War Fighter!! General Needham, I have countless stories concerning interactions of you and the G-3 Staff - ALL incredibly memorable. Personally, I miss Bragg and the many officers assigned to the Corps, Division and Brigades. Combat Leaders like you shaped the Force. Your legacy was instrumental in Airborne operations & can be traced to our modern Army. Miss you Boss ! - RIP. Col. Jerome Watson, USA (Ret) 1969- 1999.

• July 17, 2026

  Jim Considine, Charlestown

  With our deepest gratitude for your devoted military service to our nation, may you now rest in peace.

• July 17, 2026

  John Rodriguez

  Tom was a leader and an Officer and Gentleman. He was my Company Commander in D Co 173rd Airborne Vietnam 1967/68. We met again at our Reunion in Scottsdale Arizona a few years ago and stayed in touch. We shared Sports stories and he knew his Sports and loved his Bruins. He liked my love on Dodgers and sent him Dodger wear which he wore proudly. Spoke with him after his return home after a month in a hotel do to roof damage after snows and happy to be home last month. He always asked about fellow soldiers in our Company and will miss him dearly . John Rodriguez So Calif

• July 17, 2026

  Pete Stevens

  1/5O9 ABCT. Lots of memories but we were the best. He loved his Paratroopers and made sure we were ready for anything. Never shall I forget my comrades. AATW!! And then some!

• July 17, 2026

  Sandy Bartlett

  My condolences to the Needham family. We still speak of MG Needham and his leadership here at XVIII Airborne Corps, as the Corps G3 and DCG, to this day. May he rest in peace. Sandy Bartlett

• July 17, 2026

  Cdr George E Scearce USN Ret

  God Bless you General Needham. You were and still are the Guiding light for me and many others.!

• July 17, 2026

  Lawson Magruder

  I returned from combat in Vietnam in Sep 1971 to my young wife Gloria and infant daughter Shannon. I worked for Tom in the Falcon Brigade headquarters of the 82nd Airborne Division. We had a very challenging boss but Tom cared immensely for his people and his families which helped us "weather the storm". We shared the same Catholic faith. He loved our family for the rest of his life. He was a devoted friend. We will miss him immensely. See you on the high ground paratrooper! Lawson Magruder

• July 17, 2026

  Pease ANGB Retiree Activities Office

  The Pease ANGB military Retiree Activities Office (RAO) would like to offer our sincere condolences and our gratitude for MG Neeham's service to our country in the United States Army. If you would like help with any matters related to casualty assistance, Defense Finance & Accounting Service, Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Veterans Affairs (VA), etc. you can contact our office on Pease Air National Guard Base at 603-430-2636 or peaseangb.rao@gmail.com. The RAO is staffed by volunteers, all military retirees themselves, and our sole purpose is to provide assistance to any military retirees and surviving spouses/family members with anything related to their military service and/or benefits, in particular during difficult times such as this. We are deeply sorry for your loss. John W. Symington CMSgt, USAF (Ret) Director

• July 17, 2026

  Gary Jugenheimer

  I worked with Gen then MAJ Tom Needham during my tour in RVN 1969-70. I met him at IFFV in Nha Trang and had the opportunity to learn much and appreciated the wonderful person that Tom was. He took no BS and was a soldier of Airborne Infantry. He was definitely and terrific asset to the US Army and his record of service is a true testament to what an Army Officer should be.

• July 17, 2026

  craig recker

  I was fortunate as a young NCO to work for Gen Needham and he demonstrated to me just what great leadership looks like. While I told him numerous times the impact he had on me as a leader I doubt he truly understood the depth of influence he had on me as an enlisted leader. I only hope I had 1/2 the impact on those I led that he had on me. Rest in Peace Sir. Craig Recker

• July 17, 2026

  Mark Lewis

  Gen Needham was a driving force in many of our careers and Army Operations. Countless airborne soldiers and families owe him for his dynamic leadership in their behalf. Mark Lewis

• July 16, 2026

  Chip Martin

  MG Needham was a tremendous influence on me personally and my time as a soldier. Serving with him was a highlight of my career. So many stories to share but no single memory will suffice. He loved what he did and it was infectious. He will be missed. ATW! Chip Martin