Nicknamed Tom. Son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas A. Herndon. Brother of James Herndon. Attended Colorado School of Mines. Graduated Colorado College in 1940 with degree in engeineering. Chapter president of Kappa Sigma and Red Lantern Club. While attending Colorado College received primary training in flying. Further trained at United Airlines school for pilots at Tracy, California and became commercial pilot for United flying routes from Portland to Salt Lake City and Portland to Vancouver. Volunteered for air transport command in Army in March 1943. Member 19th AAF Transport Command. Died in takeoff accident while engaged in perilous work of flying supplies from India over the "hump" to China. Awarded Distinguished Flying Cross for flying 78 trips on this route during the monsoon season. Also awarded Air Medal.