May 26, 2025 – In early 1968, Palo Duro High School student Thomas E. Creek was preparing to leave school and enlist in the Marine Corps. On February 13, 1969, while serving in Vietnam, Tom rolled on top of a grenade, saving the lives of those around him. Tom’s actions cost him his life, but cleared the way for a critical mission to continue. This Memorial Day, Amarillo ISD is honored to once again share the story of Amarillo’s only–and Texas’ youngest–Medal of Honor recipient, Thomas E. Creek. We fondly think of his family, friends, our community and country, all of whom are better because of brave women and men like Tom.