Submitted by Rev. Edward Tello
Veteran Leopold Ortiz led a remarkable military career spanning from World War II to serving at the Pentagon in Washington D.C. During World War II, he served in the Navy as an aviation machinist’s mate with Carrier Aircraft Service Unit 38 in the Pacific Theater. In 1961, he served with the 108th Civil Engineering Squadron in France with the 7366th Combat Support Group during the Berlin Crisis. Afterwards, he became the commander and base engineer of the 96th Civil Engineering Squadron in Abilene, Texas. Leopold then headed to the Pentagon, in Washington D.C., where he would work tirelessly until his retirement as Air Force Colonel in 1975. In 2012, he was commissioned as Admiral in the Texas Navy.
For his service, Leopold is the recipient of numerous awards and honors including the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, and Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with three Oak Leaf Clusters. In 2009, he was also awarded with the U.S. House of Representatives Commendation for World War II.
After retiring from the military, Leopold maintained his passion for serving his country through his involvement with various Veterans organizations and other charitable works. He is a member of the Lone Star Honor Flight, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Military Officers Association of America, among many others.
Leo’s remarkable life is capped off with a unique love story. Leo and his wife, Nina, met online on a dating site, met face to face and were married one month later! Both Leopold and Nina are active with the Lion’s Club. Kindred Hospice was honored to recognize this extraordinary Veteran.
