Daniel Leftwich

Retired Lt. Colonel Daniel Lee Leftwich, 87, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away peacefully at Alter Care of Hilliard July 11, 2009. He was born on Nov. 30, 1921 in Brownsville, Texas. He proudly served his country beginning his career with the Federal Service on Jan 22, 1942 as an aviation Cadet. He received a second Lt. Commission on Nov 10, 1942. He served in the Army Air Corps as a dive-bomber pilot and flew 78 P-51 combat missions with the 364th Fighting group based out of Honnington, England. After WW 2, he entered Counter Intelligence Corps serving both military and civilian for over 40 years. He was credited with flying the first mission of the Berlin Airlift. As a civilian, he was assigned to Major Aircraft Program offices at WPAFB, which launched the F-4 and EF-111 fighter attack plane.

After retirement, he enjoyed traveling, visiting long time friends and family, entertaining and spending time in Florida. He was instrumental in forming the reunion organization for the 364th Fighter Group and stayed in touch with many members over the years. He also spent time researching the Leftwich family history and attending the reunions.

His parents Daniel and Bessie Leftwich and Naomi I. Siler, his wife of 62 years, precede him in death. Survivors include two daughters, Danielle (Lee) White of Hopkinsville, KY and Elizabeth (John) Myers of Columbus, Ohio. He also has five grandchildren: Daniel and Kelly White, Curtiss, Leesa and Marcus Myers. All will miss him.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at 12:00 on Saturday, Aug.1, 2009, at Sugar Grove Cemetery, West Alexandria. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be in his memory to The Boy Scouts of America,1901 E. Dublin-Granville Rd. , Columbus, Ohio 43229