U.S. Naval Cryptologic Veterans Association

A Tribute by CWO4/CTICM Jim Reeb, USN (Ret.)

The former U. S. Naval Security Group, the U.S. Navy’s submarine force, and our nation lost a rare treasure on February 19^th this year when Tommy Cox, age 80, passed away in his beloved state of Maine. I also lost a cherished and beloved brother-in-arms.

I first met CTI2 Tommy Cox when he arrived at the Direct Support Division at NSGA Ft. Meade in 1968, and we were team members during the first special patrol of USS LAPON (SSN-661) during the summer of that year. We were both 26 years old and became instant friends. Tommy subsequently made two more patrols on USS LAPON and qualified in submarines aboard her on June 4, 1969, my 27^th birthday. As my career unfolded, I was detailed into the analysis and special projects arena and never obtained the coveted submarine dolphins. To my knowledge, Tommy was the first CT linguist to qualify in submarines with full consent of the of the Naval Security Group, which had previously, for security reasons, forbade any of us from doing so.

My three sons grew up listening to Tommy’s submarine songs, but it was my 2^nd son, John (Buzzy), who became the most enamored to them. Buzzy followed in my footsteps by joining the Navy, attending Russian language school, and becoming involved in submarine operations. Buzz idolized Tommy, and finally got to meet him when we attended the USSVI convention in New London in 2003. A bonus at that event was the attendance of, and conversations with, the legendary Captain “Whitey” Mack of USS LAPON fame. Buzz qualified in Submarines in 1997, and retired as a Chief Petty Officer (CTIC) in 2005 after completing 18 submarine missions. He took Tommy’s songs with him on every patrol. Sadly, Buzzy passed away in 2017, but I just know he greeted Tommy in heaven on February 19, 2023.

My youngest son, Jason, also followed in my and Buzzy’s footsteps by attending Russian language training. Jason also loved Tommy’s music. He qualified in submarines in 1997, completed 19 submarine patrols, retired as a Master Chief Petty Officer (CTICM) in 2011.

According to Tommy’s input to the Navy Together We Served website and by my count, Tommy served in the following submarines and participated in an aggregate of 15 submarine patrols as follows:

Tommy was one of thousands of Cryptologic Technicians who served in submarines during the Cold War, all of whom brought their individual talents to bear. But Tommy brought another skill on board: HIS MUSIC! In all, he produced three albums of military and submarine songs, and 1 spiritual album. Additionally, he published a book in which he described the impetus for most of his songs. This book also contains fascinating details of his life and career. In his book, you will also get to see some beautiful photos which are attributed to “Personal Collection”.*

I always told Tommy that his voice and guitar style reminded me of a combination of Elvis and Johnny Cash, and he never refuted my description. However, it did make him smile when I did it. To be sure, he put his heart into every song, and pretty much covered all aspects of his life and occupation. I loved Tommy Cox, and when I last spoke with him a few weeks before he entered hospice care, I told him so, and he reciprocated.

I feel very confident in saying that Tommy’s music and accomplishments inspired thousands upon thousands of folks, particularly those who chose to serve in submarines. He has left a proud legacy. Fair winds and following seas, my brother. I look forward to reuniting with you in Heaven, some sweet day.

Tommy was a consummate professional cryptologist and an excellent example for those with whom he served. He was a great friend and shipmate and will be missed by many who served with and knew him.

Rest in peace, Senior Chief: We have the watch, you stand relieved.

*Tango Charlie, Riverdale Books (August 31, 2006). ISBN-13: 978-1-932606-16-4, ISBN-10: 1932606-16-5, Library 0f Congress Control Number: 2006933398