David C. Leestma | |
---|---|
NASA Astronaut | |
Nationality | American |
Status | Retired |
Born |
Muskegon, Michigan, U.S. |
May 6, 1949
Other names
|
David Cornell Leestma |
Other occupation
|
Naval flight officer |
USNA, B.S. 1971 NPS, M.S. 1972 |
|
Rank | Captain, USN |
Time in space
|
22 days 04 hours 32 minutes |
Selection | 1980 NASA Group 9 |
Total EVAs
|
1 |
Total EVA time
|
3 hours 29 minutes |
Missions | STS-41-G, STS-28, STS-45 |
Mission insignia
|
David Cornell Leestma (born May 6, 1949) is a former American astronaut and retired Captain in the United States Navy.
Born May 6, 1949, in Muskegon, Michigan. Married to the former Patti K. Opp of Dallas, Texas, they have six children. He enjoys golfing, tennis, aviation, and fishing. His parents, Dr. and Mrs. Harold F. Leestma, reside in Palm Desert, California. His wife's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Opp, reside in New Braunfels, Texas.
Graduated from Tustin High School in Tustin, California, in 1967; received a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the United States Naval Academy in 1971, and a Master of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School in 1972.
Associate Fellow, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA); Life Member, Association of Naval Aviation.
The Distinguished Flying Cross, Legion of Merit, Defense Superior Service Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation (VX-4), National Defense Service Medal, Battle "E" Award (VF-32), the Rear Admiral Thurston James Award (1973), the NASA Space Flight Medal (1984, 1989, 1992), the NASA Exceptional Service Medal (1985, 1988, 1991, 1992), and the NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal (1993, 1994). He was awarded the Presidential Rank of Meritorious Executive Award in 1998 and again in 2004.