OSHKOSH, Wis. (WFRV) – Tom Artz is a man whose commitment to service didn’t end when he returned home from Vietnam.
98-year-old Two Rivers veteran reflects on service and life after the military
Every day at his home in Oshkosh, he reflects on a life shaped by sacrifice, resilience, and dedication to others. Artz entered the Army in 1967 as a 20-year-old. Newly married at the time, he was soon sent to Vietnam, where he worked as a radio operator.
“I was married less than a year when I went over there, my daughter was born when I went over there, and I didn’t see her until she was 8 and a half years old, and I thank God every day I got back to see them,” Artz said.
While in Vietnam, Artz was responsible for maintaining communications, often flying to fire bases and working in high-risk conditions. But it’s not the job itself that stayed with him — it’s the people.
“I saw a lot of things there that I probably don’t want to remember. I had a lot of good friends over there. I lost a lot of good friends over there,” Artz said.
Returning home came with its own challenges. Like many Vietnam veterans, Artz said he struggled with how he was treated.
“I got called a baby killer, and I thought I didn’t kill my babies… I never could understand that,” Artz said.
Despite those experiences, Artz built a life centered on service and community. For more than 30 years, he has been an active member of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars, supporting fellow veterans and taking part in honor guard services.
That dedication was recently recognized when Artz was named Omro Legionnaire of the Year.
“And this year, they voted me Legionnaire of the year. It just took me by complete shock… that was the best thing that I ever got in my life,” Artz said.
Outside of his service work, Artz enjoys spending time with his son and grandson, often riding motorcycles together and staying active in the community.
At home, life looks a little different these days. Artz was married to his wife for 56 years before she passed away last July — a loss he still feels deeply.
“I had 56 years with my wife. She just passed away last July… and I miss her,” he said.
Now, he finds comfort in his dog, Lexie, who has become a steady companion.
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“Lexie’s my companion… she can pick up when I’m feeling down… and it gives me comfort,” Artz said.
Through war, loss, and healing, Artz’s life has been defined by one constant — service to others.
