A Life of Service: Country, Family, and Community

As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, Hillsboro resident Thomas Reilly reflects on a lifetime of service to his country, his family, and his community.
After graduating from the Calhoun Marine Engineering Beneficial Association (MEBA) School with a Marine Engineering Coast Guard License, Reilly received a direct commission into the United States Navy in New Orleans. He went on to serve 29 years in the U.S. Navy Reserve, retiring in 2013 with the rank of Commander.
In addition to his military service, Reilly enjoyed a 38-year career with BG&E’s Constellation Energy at the Brandon Shores Power Station, where he worked in the control room operating station. He retired after nearly four decades of service in the energy industry.
While proud of his military accomplishments, Reilly is quick to recognize the sacrifices made by his wife, Jaci.
“I got married shortly after MEBA,” Reilly said. “My wife’s not a veteran, but she was home taking care of the two small children, and I always say she served too. She held down the homefront.”
Thomas and Jaci, the former Jaci Eveland, who grew up in Talbot County, recently celebrated 42 years of marriage.
Beyond his military service, Reilly has long been involved in the local community. When his children were young, they became active in Chapel District 4-H after encouragement from longtime community supporter Sonny Snow.
According to Reilly, Snow was looking for parents to partner with youth projects at the Talbot Agriculture & Education Center. Together with Ryan Snow, Allison Roe, and Kara Hutchison and other dedicated 4-H members and families, efforts were made to raise funds for building improvements and youth programs.
One memorable project involved a cow donated by the Bramble family of Queen Anne. The donation helped support a Beef Barn Fundraising Project, which raised funds while teaching young people valuable lessons about agriculture, responsibility, and community involvement.
Looking back, Reilly sees many similarities between military service and community service.
“Both require commitment, teamwork, and a willingness to help others,” he said.
Reilly’s commitment to youth and agriculture continues today through his involvement with the Talbot County Fair and Livestock Auction. This year’s Livestock Auction will take place on Saturday, July 11, at 7pm at the Talbot Agriculture and Education Center in Easton.
The auction is one of the fair’s most important events, providing local 4-H and FFA members the opportunity to sell livestock they have raised through their animal science projects. Funds generated through the auction help young people recover project expenses, support future livestock projects. Proceeds from animals that are re-sold in the second round auction go towards the Talbot Youth Livestock Fund and help to fund repairs and improvements at the Ag Center. The Auction Committee also plans to award a scholarship to a senior 4-H member this year.
Reilly encourages community members, businesses, and organizations to support the auction and the next generation of agricultural leaders. For him, it is another way to give back to a community that has meant so much to his family over the years.
The 2026 Talbot County Fair will be held July 9-11 at the Talbot Agriculture and Education Center, 10659 Hiners Lane, Easton. Fair hours are 4-9pm on Thursday and Friday, and 9am to 8pm on Saturday. The fair features livestock shows, exhibits, children’s activities, midway games and food vendors, special events, and opportunities to socialize with family and friends in a relaxed setting. For more information, including updates to the fair schedule, visit talbotcountyfair.org or email info@talbotcountyfair.org.
As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, Thomas Reilly’s story reminds us that service extends beyond military duty. Whether serving his country as a Navy Commander, supporting his family, or helping young people succeed through 4-H and the Talbot County Fair, Reilly continues to exemplify the spirit of dedication, community, and patriotism that has helped shape our nation for 250 years.