Vernon L. Thompson Collection

Vernon L. Thompson (March 8, 1905–May 28, 1986) was an American commercial and portrait photographer active primarily in the mid-20th century. Born in Iowa, Thompson began his career as a commercial photographer in Tucson, Arizona, where he operated his own studio. In 1934, he returned to Iowa and founded Thompson Studio in Cedar Rapids, providing photographic services for the Cedar Rapids Gazette and producing portrait, holiday, and commercial photography.

On August 29, 1942, Thompson enlisted in the United States Navy during World War II. He served in the Naval Photographic Unit under Commander Edward Steichen, contributing to the Navy’s visual documentation. During his service, he processed photographs taken overseas, including significant images of the aftermath of the attack on Pearl Harbor and early naval operations. While stationed in Washington, D.C., Thompson also worked with actor Gene Kelly, who was also assigned to the unit, and met his second wife, Bonnie Thompson. Thompson was honorably discharged from the Navy on September 21, 1945. He resumed his photography career after the war and remained active in the field for many years. Vernon L. Thompson died on May 28, 1986, and is buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.