Walter William Manning II

Born in Clearwater, Florida he was the youngest of two children of parents Walter and Evelyn Manning. He attended Clearwater Highschool and was a member of the Class of 1968. He secured a nomination and acceptance to the United States Naval Academy where he was member of the football team and Commissioned as a Naval Officer with the Class of 1972. He served with distinction as a carrier-based naval aviator. His service included time in Vietnam, Europe, Southeast Asia and the National Capitol Region with assignments on the Joint Staff and the Federal Aviation Administration. His awards included the Defense Meritorious Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Medal (1 Star), Vietnamese Campaign Medal (1 Star), Sea Service Ribbon (3 Stars), and the Vietnamese Service Medal. He was a graduate of Air War College and held a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering. He was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

His military career was one of courage, precision, and commitment — qualities he carried with him into his work as an engineer after retirement. He was a man of prayer, grounded in the words of the Bible, even as he faced the challenges of post-traumatic stress later in life. He was the dad we loved but never got the chance to really know. We honor him — for his service, faith, and for the good that lived in him.

Walter is preceded in death by his parents Walter W. Manning and Evelyn J. Manning.

Walter is survived by his daughters Wendy (Adam) Basla, Elizabeth Manning-Cicorella, stepson, Doug, sister Linda, five Grandchildren, and nephew Travis.

A grave side service and burial will be held at Arlington National Cemetery on January 5th 2026 at 11am. Arrangements are by Demaine Funeral Home.

May he find the peace in death that eluded him in life.

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18

Fair winds and following seas, Dad. You are remembered and released.