Gary Thaden's hometown was Brighton, CO.  He graduated from Brighton High School in 1967.  He had three younger brothers.

Sgt. Thaden  was attached to the 101st Airborne Division, 2nd Battalion, 501st Infantry, C Company.

During his service in the Vietnam War, Army Sergeant Thaden experienced a traumatic event which ultimately resulted in loss of life on July 4, 1970. Recorded circumstances attributed to: Died through hostile action, explosive device. Incident location: Ridge SE Fr Hill 902 Vic Fsb Ripcord, South Vietnam, Thua Thien province.