Tom, a graduate of Arkansas State University, joined the U.S. Army on 14 February 1969 as a Private (E-2), graduated from Officer Candidate School at Ft. Benning, Georgia, and served in Vietnam as a platoon and company commander with the 1st Cavalry Division. His awards include the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal, and six Meritorious Service Medals. Tom joined the Arkansas National Guard in 1972 and held numerous roles in operations, logistics, and personnel, as well as command positions at the company, battalion, and brigade levels. He dedicated three decades to enhancing the effectiveness of the Arkansas National Guard. Tom’s efforts were recognized by five Adjutant Generals and he received decorations from three Governors.

Tom was named the Outstanding Unit Commander of the 2nd Battalion, 153rd Regiment, and served as a Battalion Executive Officer and Battalion Commander. During his tenure on the Adjutant General's staff, the Governor of Arkansas awarded him the Distinguished Service Medal, stating that Tom's work led to the readiness of the Arkansas National Guard being at its highest level ever. While Tom commanded the Installation Support Unit, it was the only TDA Unit in Arkansas to receive the Superior Unit Award.

Tom also provided counseling to many young veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, assisting them in their transition and helping them obtain their deserved benefits. His dedication to veterans led to his appointment by Governor Mike Beebe in 2009 to a five-year term on the Arkansas Veterans Affairs Commission, which he currently chairs. Tom was inducted into the Ft. Benning OCS Hall of Fame in 1999 and continues to be invited to the Infantry School to provide counsel and assist in pinning ceremonies. He is a member of the American Legion, where he serves on a National Board for Legislative Affairs, MOAA, and VFW. Additionally, Tom has volunteered countless hours working with the youth of White County, Arkansas, spearheading the development of a youth sports complex, and is active in his church, participating in mission trips and summer youth camps.