Thomas Alva Cochrane

His character was forged in the hard times of the Depression and tempered by the desperate conflict of the World War that followed. In spite of these things, and many would say because of them, Tom Cochrane retained his sense of humor, his Cracker philosophy and his dedication to agriculture and the profession of teaching young people to love that industry as much as he did. His belief that agricultural education should be experienced and not just read out of a book led to an exemplary career as a teacher, FFA advisor, and county vocational agriculture supervisor.

Thomas Alva Cochrane was born on December 14, 1917 in Wauchula, Florida into one of the first pioneer families of Hardee County. Upon graduating from Wauchula High School in 1935, he stayed on the family farm until he was called to serve in the U.S. Army in 1942. Tom earned a field commission to Second Lieutenant, was a tank commander in the Battle of the Bulge, and received two Purple Hearts for his wounds in combat.

When he returned home he pursued his bachelor's and master's degrees in Agricultural Education at the University of Florida under the GI bill, graduating in 1949. Tom found work right away teaching in the Veterans On the Farm Program in Homestead in 1950 and accepted a teaching position at Fort Meade High School in 1951. As the agriculture teacher and FFA advisor, he built a model program that incorporated hands-on learning with over 40 head of purebred Hereford and Brahman cattle, vegetable farming, a citrus grove, and an ornamental nursery. His students were involved in the complete production cycle of each enterprise and also learned carpentry, electrical, welding and small engine mechanics skills. Tom also stressed a strong classroom component and FFA involvement at the local, state, and national level. His students earned many awards and honors during his mentorship, including a state officer; many activity awards; and National Gold, Silver, and Bronze emblem recognition for the chapter.

After more than 20 years as a teacher, Tom took on a new challenge as Polk County Vocational Agriculture Supervisor in 1973. He believed strongly in the importance of professional organizations and served as President of the Florida Vocational Agriculture Teachers Association in 1962. His outstanding accomplishments over the years were recognized with the Honorary American Farmer Degree, the Teacher of Teachers award for having three students enter the agriculture teaching profession, and a Florida Citrus Mutual Outstanding Achievement award for Citrus Placement. Just as active in his community as he was in his profession, Tom served as Mayor of Ft. Meade and was named its Most Outstanding Citizen in 1964.