ATOW-MWA-GU 7 August 2006
MEMORANDUM FOR The Honorable James
Whittemore, Sam M. Gibbons U.S. Courthouse, 801 North Florida Ave., Tampa,
Florida 33602
SUBJECT: Letter in Support of
Thomas F. Spellissy
1. The purpose of this letter is to share some insights about Thomas
F. Spellissy. He is man of
extraordinary character who possesses uncommon integrity and love of country. Furthermore, he has a long record of
distinguished, selfless service to the Nation, its citizens, the United States
Army, Soldiers, and their families.
Having known him for thirty-one years, I can think of no one more
honorable or noble.
2. I met Tom in 1975 when we joined the United States Corps of
Cadets at the United States Military Academy, West Point, NY. From the beginning, I was impressed by his
physical, mental, and emotional toughness, and his knack for leading others to
complete difficult tasks in superlative fashion. As time progressed, I became even more struck by his work ethic,
ability to work well with others, and trustworthiness in achieving results at
the highest level while always playing by the rules.
3. Thomas Spellissy is recognized in the Army as a leader of
competence and character. He is a role
model who always sets the example in thought, word, and deed. Moreover, he influences others to accomplish
missions by providing purpose, direction, and motivation. As a cadet at West Point, Tom’s ability to
balance academics, athletics, student activities, family, and friends was
unmatched by his peers. Since
commissioning in 1979, Tom spent his career leading Soldiers around the world
during peace and war. We served together
in the 1st Armored Division in Germany during the mid-1980s. The artillery battery he commanded was
recognized as the best in the entire division which is no small feat given that
there were about 200 battery-sized units in 1st AD. In short, Thomas Spellissy is an honest,
courageous, and loyal man who gets things done and takes care of people.
4. In conclusion, Thomas Spellissy’s character, experience, and
record of service are of the highest magnitude. If my sons are ever called to war or a tough situation, may they
go with Tom Spellissy. I would entrust
their lives to him without hesitation, and I would rest assured that they would
successfully perform their duties while always being well cared for. Please contact me at 509-323-6517 or
westfield@gonzaga.edu for further assistance.
Lieutenant
Colonel (Retired), U.S. Army
Assistant
Professor of Military Science