David Phillip Mott

Born on January 21, 1942, in Cleveland, Ohio, David was the son of Sidney and Coletta Mott. He spent his early years in Brainerd, Minnesota, before moving with his family to Jamestown, North Dakota, where he graduated from high school. He went on to earn a degree in mathematics from North Dakota State University, where he also met his first wife, Phyllis Heaton. Together they had two children, Andrea and David. He later continued his education, receiving a master’s degree in business from Auburn University in 1978.

David was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant upon completing Officer Training School and entered pilot training at Webb Air Force Base, Texas, in December 1965. Following his graduation, he remained at Webb as a T-38 Instructor Pilot with the 3560th Pilot Training Squadron, where he trained and mentored the next generation of Air Force aviators.

In February 1971, he began upgrade training in the OV-10 aircraft, preparing for service as a forward air controller. By September 1971, he was assigned to the 20th Tactical Air Support Squadron at Da Nang Air Base, Vietnam. Over the course of his combat service, David accumulated 485 combat flight hours while serving as a Flight Commander and Unit Scheduling Officer.

On May 19, 1972, his aircraft was shot down, and he was captured and taken to Hanoi, where he endured the hardships of captivity as a prisoner of war. He remained a POW until his repatriation on March 30, 1973. His courage, resilience, and devotion to duty during that ordeal were a testament to his strength of character and unwavering patriotism.

After his release, David was assigned to George Air Force Base in California, where he completed upgrade training in the F-4D fighter aircraft. He went on to serve in a variety of assignments that further demonstrated his skill, leadership, and dedication. Over the course of his Air Force career, he accumulated more than 4,200 flying hours as a Command Pilot, a remarkable achievement reflecting both his experience and his deep commitment to aviation and service.

For his exceptional career, David received numerous decorations and honors, including the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star Medal, and the Purple Heart, among others. These commendations stand as a lasting testament to his bravery, skill, and sacrifice.

On October 30, 1976, David married Elizabeth Splichal, and together they built a loving partnership that endured for nearly five decades. Beginning in 1978, David was stationed in Germany for five consecutive assignments working with NATO, serving there until his retirement in 1995. During those years abroad, David and Liz developed a lifelong love for skiing and had the opportunity to travel throughout Europe. Together, they enjoyed exploring different cultures and cuisines. After retiring, they settled in Colorado Springs, where they continued to enjoy skiing—especially the après-ski lifestyle that brought them joy and connection with friends.

Beyond his military accomplishments, David was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife, Elizabeth Splichal Mott; his children, Andrea Mott and David Mott; and his grandsons, Harrison and Alexander Mott. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sidney and Coletta Mott, and his brother, Roger Mott.

David will be remembered not only for his service to the nation but also for the qualities that defined his everyday life. His dry sense of humor endeared him to most, while his gift for storytelling entertained family and friends alike. He developed a joy for cooking, bringing people together with meals that nurtured deep friendships. His wit and authenticity, together with his strength, made him someone whose presence was appreciated and whose memory will be long cherished.

A funeral service with full military honors, followed by interment, will be held at Pikes Peak National Cemetery at a later date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Pikes Peak Hospice would be appreciated by the family, in gratitude for the care and comfort they provided to David, and so many other families.

David lived by two favorite rules in life: “Be smarter than the equipment you are working with” and “Beer starts at good.”