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Thad Blanchard Sr.

We did an interview with Thad Blanchard Sr. and he agreed that we could post it on this website. Jessica was the reporter who got the needed information. Thad Blanchard was the Grand Marshall.

Jessica: What did it feel like to be the Grand Marshall in the Veteran's Day Parade 2008?  

Thad:  I felt that it was a great honor, however I feel there were other people that were more fit for the position.                                                                                                   

Jessica: What branch of the service were you in?

Thad: I was in the Army Paratroopers.

Jessica: What was your ranking?

Thad: Staff sergeant, combat squad leader, 76th Infantry Division. It was 1 year, and four months.

Jessica: What job did you do?

Thad: Well I  did really anything that they asked. I jumped out of airplanes, and combat equipment, I was also in the 505 regiment. I was assigned to jump school, and then after jump school there was 507. Every-time there was any type of mess up, we were called in for back-up. If they didn't need us we would go in for a practice jump.

Jessica: What battle or battles did you fight in?

Thad: I fought in the Battle of the Bulge and Germany.

Jessica: When did you go overseas?

Thad: I went the June of 1944.

Jessica: What outfit were you in?

Thad: A company 507 paratroop resident.

Jessica: Did you like the service?                                                  

Thad: Well yes, it was tuff but is good.

Jessica: What did you enjoy the most in the Service?

Thad: Jumping out of the airplanes, without a doubt.

Jessica: What did serving do for you as a person?

Thad: I think it made me mature, and really made me appreciate who I am. It gave me insight to tragedy and served with the greatest bunch men I could ever serve with.

Jessica: Are you active in VFW?

Thad: Yes, very!!!

Jessica: What do you in do in the VFW?

Thad:  I am now post commander, but I have been quarter master (treasure). I still do Voice of Democracy and Patriot Pen scholarships. I also work with the youth. 

Jessica: Do you participate in the funeral ceremony's for the past Veterans?

Thad: Yes I do and sadly we have been doing quite a few.

Jessica: What keeps you in VFW?

Thad: I suppose we need origination to secure benefits for people who were/are in the service now.

Interview took place December 9, 2008.