Col. Donald W. Eisenhart

Monday, October 20, 2003

Col. Donald W. Eisenhart (USAF, Ret.) passed away Oct. 8, 2003, at age 92.

A graduate of the University of Nebraska, Don was born in Culbertson on April 4, 1911. He first came to San Antonio in 1933 to attend the Air Corps Training Center at Randolph and Kelly Fields and began a 33-year career in the United States Air Force. During World War II he served in the Asia-Pacific Theater as Commander, 9th Bombardment Group, 20th Air Force on Tinian and as Operations Officer, 1st Air Division, Okinawa.

Upon his return to the United State, Colonel Eisenhart attended the Air War College, Industrial College, served tours with both Tactical and Strategic Air Commands before going to Paris, France as Chief, Air Force Section, Military Assistance Advisory Group. He then returned to Texas and served under Air Training Command until his retirement in 1966. For his dedicated service he was recognized with the Legion of Merit (with Oak Leaf Cluster), Distinguished Flying Cross, The Air Medal, Army and Air Force Commendation Medals, Distinguished Unit Citation (with Oak Leaf Cluster) and the Asia-Pacific Medal (with three Bronze Stars).

Don was an accomplished golfer, excellent bird hunter, impatient fisherman and a good bridge partner. He was a devoted husband and father, continually supporting his family in education, scouting, sporting events and just plain being a dad. He was very active in local communities as a Shriner and through his military responsibilities.

Colonel Eisenhart was preceded in death by his parents, nine brothers and sisters, his son, Don Jr., and his wife, Dorothy.

His survivors are brothers, Russell, Warren, Kirwin, Carroll and sister, Elinor Lemon, sons, Robert and John and wife, Anne and stepchildren, William Nevitt, Anne Hill, Amanda Nevitt and nine grandchildren.

We will all miss him.