Bay Area man's missing medals and uniforms causes anxiety - WFLA-TV Newschannel 8

Bay Area man's missing medals and uniforms causes anxiety

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Judy Milsaps from Facebook Judy Milsaps from Facebook
Linda and Alton Thompson talk to Peter Bernard about his missing medals and uniforms. Linda and Alton Thompson talk to Peter Bernard about his missing medals and uniforms.
A sample of the medals recovered from Judy Milsaps. A sample of the medals recovered from Judy Milsaps.
TAMPA, FL -

Career navy man Alton Thompson enlisted in the U.S. Navy right out of high school. He spent most of his military time under water, serving on six submarines. He was captain of the USS. Puffer... And later, the first "Trident" class .. The USS. Ohio.

So in January 2012, Alton's wife, Linda, asked Judy Milsaps, a craft quilter who sold at booths set up at fairs, to create a commemorative piece of art. "I saw all the work she was doing. It was beautiful. So I thought that would be a great thing for Alton to do for Christmas last year" said Linda Thompson. The project would consist of two panels, hung from a brass rod, filled with Alton's medals, and his blue Navy uniforms. It would be a Christmas gift Alton could pass to his 2 sons.

But 14 months later, the Thompsons have nothing and the medals and uniforms are too."I haven't heard from her. I've tried to reach her many times. I've gone to all the markets that she used to be. She was in Gulfport. I've gone back to Ybor.

The thompsons are moving to Philadelphia on Wednesday. Their belongings are boxed up, the moving truck is in the street. Linda gave Milsaps a hundred dollars for the work. She's out the cash and just want Alton's stuff back. Alton Thompson sums up the situation. "It is a mystery." he said.

A relative of Milsaps agreed to look for the Navy memorabilia, and return in to it's rightful owner. The relative explained, Judy Milsaps recently moved, has an ill mother, and misplaced the items. But a search of her house turned up the medals and uniforms.

They were promptly returned to the Thompsons, along with $100 cash.

"Most appreciative.  Thank you. Thank you so much." said Alton Thompson 

 

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