Bernard L. (Ben) Thompson was born and raised in Jamaica, New York.  He currently resides in St. Albans, New York.  After graduating from high school, Ben chose to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force.  He served one tour of duty in the Republic of Vietnam with the 559th Tactical Fighter Squadron as a   Weapons Specialist / Heavy Ordinance.  Upon his return from overseas, Ben received a medical discharge.

In 1980, Ben, also known as "BIG Ben”, joined the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States at Proctor-Hopson Post #1896 located in Jamaica, New York.  In 1981, he made a full commitment to the V.F.W. by becoming a Life Member.  He served through the chairs of his post which led to his election to the office of Post Commander for the years 1983 to 1985.  Each year, Ben received the high honor of "All State Post  Commander”.  Since 1985 to present, Ben has held the office of Post  Quartermaster.

Ben’s dedication and commitment to the V.F.W. at the County Council and District levels, lead to his election as Queens County Council Commander for the term 1986 to 1987 and District #1 Commander for the term 1997 to 1998. On the State level, Ben held various chairmanships and served on various committees.  He also served through the chairs of the Department of New York leading to his election in 2001, at the 82nd State Convention held in Buffalo, New York, to the high office of State   Commander.  Ben continues to serve at the State level.

Ben has served on various National committees and as the Chairman of the Eastern States Conference. In 2009, Ben was elected to serve a two year term on the National Council of Administration as the National Council Member representing the Department of New York.

Ben is a Life Member and Past Seam Squirrel of Pup Tent #42, Military Order of the Cootie, a Life Member of the 369th Veterans Association, AMVETS, Disabled American Veterans, and a member of the Air Force Association. He is the Vice    President of the Proctor-Hopson Post Memorial Association, and on the Board of  Directors of the New York Military Ministry & Fellowship Group.

In 2018, Ben was inducted into the New York State Senate Veteran’s Hall of Fame.

Ben is currently employed by the U.S. Department of State, New York Despatch Agency where he holds the position of Despatch Agent of the United States.

Ben is dedicated to his Community and his fellow Veterans.

"Big Ben” would like to be known as: "A COMRADE WHO IS HONORED TO SERVE HIS FELLOW VETERANS AND HIS COMMUNITY.”