William Nelson Thomas served in the U.S. Army.
Lieutenant William Thomas, Correctional Officer Stanley Cole and Correctional Officer Robert Conkle were killed during a riot at the Pontiac Correctional Center. Around 9:00 am, about 500 inmates were returning to their cells in the North Cell House when a riot erupted. The inmates set fire to several buildings in the complex resulting in an estimated $4 million in damages. Lieutenant Thomas and Correctional Officer Conkle were stabbed with shanks numerous times shortly after the riot began. Correctional Officer Cole was stabbed with a screwdriver. Correctional center staff and Illinois State Police troopers were able to restore order and return the inmates to their cells 11 hours later. Seventeen inmates were charged with the murders of the correctional officers, but none were convicted. Lieutenant Thomas had served with the Illinois Department of Corrections for four years and was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean War.
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In tribute
I served 1985 to 1993. You served too, before the badge - different uniform, same idea. You go where you are sent and you do not get to pick the call.
Lieutenant Thomas gave the Illinois Department of Corrections 4 years.
Thank you for your service to the people of Illinois, and for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.
Rest easy, brother.
— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993
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