Upon graduation David was commissioned an Ensign and began a career in the United States Navy. Ensign Draz was sent to Newport, Rhode Island to the Navy’s General Line School. While there he met and married Barbara Frick of Pittsburgh, PA. Dave’s career included service on submarines and as a Naval Aviator. He is one of few to hold both Gold Dolphins and Wings of Gold. He completed his Naval Service with two assignments, Naval Attaché in Karachi, Pakistan and then as Chief of the Naval Section at C Command General Staff College, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. He retired as a Captain, USN and notable decorations include twice receiving the Legion of Merit and a Meritorious Unit Commendation for a Squadron he commanded.
Captain Draz is survived by his brother Richard Draz of San Diego, California, and his children, Katherine Hazelrigs of Cary, NC; Samantha Brantley of Ponte Vedra Beach, FL; David Draz, Jr. of Dayton, TX; and Melissa Weir of St. Augustine, FL; along with 5 grandchildren.
A celebration of Captain Draz’s life will be held at 10am on Wednesday, November 6, 2013 at Christ Episcopal Church, 400 San Juan Dr. Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
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