US Army Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) David V. Leins Jr. 78 of Daytona Beach passed away on Friday March 15 2013. A viewing will be held at Lohman Funeral Home Daytona on Monday March 18 from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M with the funeral service at 7:00 P.M. He will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors at a later date.
David was born on September 14 1934 in Fairborn Ohio to the late Leona (Locke) and David V. Leins Sr. He graduated for Fairborn High School and later attended the University of Cincinnati where he played football and received his bachelors' degree. Following his graduation he was commissioned a second lieutenant in the United States Army serving 26 years including two tours in Vietnam. He was a successful helicopter pilot and flew over 2800 hours of safe combat missions. David's military awards include the Distinguished Flying Cross Bronze Star Medal Distinguished Meritorious Service Medal (with Oak Leaf Cluster) Meritorious Service Medal (with Oak Leaf Cluster) Air Medal (with 42 Oak Leaf Clusters) Vietnam Service Medal Vietnam Gallantry Cross (with Silver Star and Palm) and Humanitarian Service Ribbon.
In addition to his military education David attended the University of Kansas where he obtained a Masters' degree in Guidance and Counseling. He dedicated his life to military service and his family. David was a member of the the Society of Daedalus Black Hawk Society and the Army Aviation Association.
He is survived by beloved wife of 58 years Carole A. (Pond) Leins; sons Scott Chris Shawn Wayne five grandchildren; many extended family members and close friends.
Memorial contributions can be made in Mr. Leins honor to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org. Arrangements are under the careful supervision of Lohman Funeral Home Daytona. Condolences are welcome and may be shared with the family at www.lohmanfuneralhomes.com.