Rathvon McClure Tompkins
Major General, U.S. Marine Corps

Rathvon McClure Tompkins was born on 23 August 1912.

World War II

Tompkins served in the Pacific during World War II. He received the Navy Cross, the Marine Corps' second highest award for valor, for his heroism on Saipan, a Silver Star at Tarawa and a Bronze Star at Guadalcanal.

Korean War

During the Korean War, he commanded the 5th Marines of the 1st Marine Division.

Vietnam War

In 1967, he went to South Vietnam as Commander of the 3rd Marine Division, Reinforced. He commanded the Division during the Tet Offensive and the siege of Khe Sanh.

Major General Tompkins' final assignment was serving two years as Base Commander of Camp Lejeune, NC. He retired from active duty in 1971 after over 32 years of distinguished service.

Death and Burial

Major General Rathvon McClure Tompkins died on 17 September 1999 in Lexington, SC, following a stroke. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA.