Thomas Eric McLaughlin was born on 30 March 1916 at Wingham to John McLaughlin and Jessie Crossingham.
Thomas enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force on the 30 March 1942 at Petersham aged 26 years stating his occupation as wool spinner. He listed his wife Hilda McLaughlin as his next of kin. He and Hilda (Schaible) were married in 1939 at Newtown and had 1 son when he enlisted.
At the time of enlistment he was employed as a guard.
During his time in the Air Force, Thomas received postings to Camden, Canberra, Mareeba, Bohle River, Townsville, Milne Bay, Concord, Wagga, Narromine, Sydney and Bradfield Park.
Thomas embarked from Australia to New Guinea on 11 November 1942 returning on 18 June 1943.
He received the 1939-45 Star, the Pacific Star, the War Medal 1939-45 and the Returned from Active Service Badge.
At the time of discharge on 8 January 1946, he was posted to 1 Transport and Movement Office.
Thomas died on 18 March 1987 at Picton aged 71. He and Hilda had 4 children.
