David Ian Habermacher

David “Dee” Habermacher died at the age of 82 on May 18 at the Habermacher Ranch in Sabinal, Texas. Dee was born in Uvalde, Texas in January 1943 to David Habermacher Sr and Margarget Griesenbeck Habermacher. He married his wife, Caroline Davis, in October of 1965. He was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps following completion of his bachelor’s degree from Sam Houston State University. He earned his wings as a Naval Aviator and subsequently qualified in the A-4 Skyhawk. He deployed to the Republic of Vietnam during the height of the conflict, serving with distinction as a pilot with Marine Attack Squadron 223 (VMA-223), the “Bulldogs.” Following his return from Vietnam, Habermacher continued to serve with excellence, progressing through a variety of assignments that broadened his expertise in aviation operations and leadership, ultimately earning him the rank of Colonel.

Colonel Habermacher was in command of the Marine Aviation Training Support Group 23 (MATSG-23) from 24 May 1986 to 19 July 1989 based at Naval Air Station (NAS) Lemoore, California. He proactively embraced the transition to the F/A-18 Hornet and became a key figure in the early adoption and integration of the F/A-18 into the Marine Corps inventory. He served as an instructor and evaluator, sharing his extensive aviation knowledge and experience with the next generation of Marine fighter/attack pilots.

Colonel Habermacher retired from active duty in 1993 after a distinguished career of dedicated service to the Marine Corps and the nation. In retirement, he continued his father’s legacy of ranching around the Ranchero Creek, wet or dry, in Sabinal. He leaves behind a legacy of courage, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His contributions to Marine Corps aviation, particularly his service in Vietnam and his leadership in the A-4 and F/A-18 communities, will be remembered for years to come.

Dee was preceded in death by his father David Ian Sr., his daughter Ursula Ellen Habermacher, his mother Margaret, his sisters Ursula Ekvall and Dabney Montgomery, and his wife of 58 years, Caroline. He is survived by his son, David Ian III, grandchildren Brittney Hintz (Austen), Colby Bleau Habermacher (Shannon), Jamie Bleau Habermacher, and a great-granddaughter, Penelope Bleau Hintz. He leaves his sister, Sean, and many beloved nieces and nephews.