David Kenyon “Dave” Lehnertz
TOANO Retired U.S. Air Force Col. David Kenyon “Dave” Lehnertz, 84, died Thursday, June 24, 2021. He was born to the late Walter and Gracia in Rapid City, S.D., and raised in Dorchester, Wis.
Dave received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force on June 16, 1958. He received his navigator wings in 1963 and proudly served a tour in the Vietnam War, flying hundreds of combat missions as well as flying in multiple other campaigns and locations. Dave was designated a master navigator in 1979 and promoted to colonel in 1980. During his career, he received his MBA from St. Edward’s University and earned two Legion of Merits, a Distinguished Flying Cross, three Meritorious Service Medals, 10 Air Medals, two Air Force Commendation Medals and numerous other campaign and personal awards. Col. Lehnertz served a distinguished career with the U.S. Air Force, retiring Aug.