Thurman's family was from Marietta, Oklahoma, and he was born in nearby Gainesville, Texas, on September 19, 1953.[3] He was raised in Marietta and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from East Central University. Thurman received a Regular Army Commission from the United States Army as a second lieutenant in 1975. His civilian education also includes a Master of Arts degree in management from Webster University.
Career
Thurman (right) in August 2006, talking to General Peter Pace, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
Thurman began his career in the 4th Infantry Division, serving as Platoon Leader, Executive Officer, and Motor Officer for 6th Battalion, 32d Armor. He has commanded at all levels from company to division. After attending the Officer Rotary Wing Aviator Course, he commanded the Aero-Scout Platoon and later became the Operations Officer, A Troop, 1st Squadron, 17th Cavalry, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, North Carolina.
Thurman left Kuwait to become the director, Army Aviation Task Force, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-3, United States Army in Washington, D.C., where he remained until his arrival at Fort Hood as the 4th Infantry commanding general.
On October 2, 2006, Thurman was nominated for promotion by President George W. Bush for appointment to the rank of lieutenant general. His receipt of promotion and his third star was January 19, 2007. On December 19, 2006, Thurman took over assignment in Heidelberg, Germany as the commanding general of V Corps along with the United States Army Europe and Seventh Army. His retirement ceremony was held at Fort Hood, Texas, on 22 November 2013.