CMSgt. Don K. Holderness, USAF Ret.'s Obituary
Holderness, Don K., CMSgt USAF Ret.
The Chief made his final HALO jump into eternity on 9 Apr 2016. Don was born on 23 August 1946 in Maysville, Kentuckey. He graduated from high school in Norwood Ohio in June 1964. On 10 September 1964 he entered the Air Force where he remained on active duty until 1 Oct 1990. His stateside assignments included Osceola AFS Wisconsin, Lockbourne AFB Ohio, Billy Mitchell Field (Milwaukee) Wisconsin, Glenn L. Martin State Airport (Baltimore) Maryland, and Mac Dill AFB Florida. His overseas postings included Cam Ranh AB, Phan Rang AB, and Quang Tri Vietnam; Rhein Main AB and Wasserkuppe AS Germany, RAF Lakenheath England, Naples Italy, and Brussels Belgium. He was decorated five times for valor, seven times for meritorious service, earned ten battle stars, and was awarded numerous other medals and ribbons. He was a Master Parachutist. After retiring from the Air Force he worked for several defense contractors, finally retiring in July 2007. He spent his retirement years residing in Valrico Florida. During his retirement he enjoyed annual cruises and trips to Europe. He was a member of AMVETS Post 44, AMVETS Post 26, Moose Lodge 1880, and Eagles Lodge 3566. He is survived by his Fiancé Tina Zitnyar, Son Thomas Holderness (Nicole Dunbar), Son David Holderness, Sister Lois Canterbury (Roger) and grandchildren Elexys and Ethan Holderness. A Celebration of Life will be held at AMVETS Post 44 on Wednesday, 13 April 2016, from 4pm till 7pm. Internment with Military Honors will take place at Florida National Cemetery.
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