David Bruce Small

David Bruce Small was born April 11, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, to Harold W. and Doris M. Small. He joined the Navy at age 20 as an enlisted man and, with only one semester of college, competed for and won a place in the Naval Aviation Cadet Program, earning his Naval Aviator 'Wings of Gold' in 1963. Flying the A-4 Skyhawk with squadron VA-163 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Oriskany, he completed 132 combat missions during the Vietnam War and received numerous decorations, including two Navy combat 'V' commendations and 13 air medals.

After leaving the Navy, David pursued his education at the University of California, Berkeley, and went on to complete law school. He then came to Nevada, settling in Carson City, where he made his home for some 40 years. Admitted to the State Bar of Nevada on September 15, 1975, he built his legal career in the region and served the community as Carson City District Attorney.

Beyond his work in the law, David remained deeply engaged in civic life. He was the longtime announcer of the Nevada Day Parade, a member of the Republican Central Committee, and served several years on the board of Carson Tahoe Hospital. He was a member of the Tailhook Association and a lifetime member of the VFW, and he officiated high school football as a referee for more than 20 years. Known for his intellect, wit, and generosity, he is remembered for a life of service both in uniform and in his adopted Nevada community.