David Leestma

About

Former U.S. Navy captain and NASA astronaut who served on three Space Shuttle missions. He flew aboard the Challenger, Columbia, and Atlantis. He was a captain in the United States Navy. 

Before Fame

He earned a degree in aeronautical engineering from the United States Naval Academy. 

Trivia

He received the NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal in 1993 and 1994. He has amassed over 20 special honors, including the Presidential Rank of Meritorious Executive Award in both 1998 and 2004. 

Family Life

He married Patti K. Opp. 

Associated With

He and John Blaha were both members of NASA Astronaut Group 9.