Thomas O’Connor was born May 17, 1918, in Renovo, PA to David O’Connor and Catherine Coughlin. He graduated from Renovo High School in 1939. During his high school career, he was an outstanding football athlete. He entered the United States Air Force following his graduation in 1939.

During World War II, O’Connor served as a gunner on a B-17 Flying Fortress. He flew numerous missions over Europe, including the bombing of Berlin.

After the war, O’Connor continued to serve in the military and was called back to duty during the Korean Conflict. He served as a gunner on a B-29 Superfortress, flying missions over North Korea.

T-Sgt Thomas E. O’Connor was reported missing in flight between Yokata Air Force Base and Itazuko Air Force Base, Japan on May 8. He was on a refueling tanker about 100 miles out of Tokyo. The plane crashed into the Pacific. Only three of those aboard survived.

Official confirmation of the death of Thomas E O’Connor, son of Mrs. Catherine O’Connor of 834 Ontario Avenue, Renovo, Pa., had been received from the United States Air Force, Washington, D.C. A Memorial Requiem Mass was held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, May 24, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Renovo, PA.

Thomas died on May 8, 1957 while in the service and his body was lost at sea.

Sgt. O’Connor, a veteran of 18 years’ service was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross with one cluster, Bronze Star, Asiatic-Pacific Medal with 7 battle stars, American Defense with one star, Victory Medal, Occupational Medal, the Distinguished Unit Citation with two oak leaf clusters, Korean Service Medal with one star, Air Medal with four oak leaf clusters, and the United Nations Medal.

Sgt. O’Connor, better known to his friends as “Mahoney,” was well-liked by all who met him.