Leslie L. Bodine, UDT 10

It is with great sadness that the UDT-SEAL Association informs the membership on the passing of Leslie L. Bodine, UDT 10 on January 4th, 2010.

Leslie Leonard Bodine passed away at home on January 4, at the age of 86 after a brief battle with cancer. He was born in Moosejaw, Saskatchewan on November 26, 1923 to Leslie and Dorothy (Miller) Bodine. His hometown was Minneapolis, MN.

Though born in Canada, Les had derivative U.S. citizenship through his mother. He proudly volunteered to serve in the Marine Corps in WWII. He was a world-class swimmer, was recruited for the OSS and
served in WWII in the Pacific Theater with a distinguished group of combat swimmers; Underwater Demolition Team 10. He participated in invasions of Palau, Ulithi. Leyte, Lingayn Gulf, and Luzon.

He and his team were later made honorary Green Berets in a ceremony at Fort Bragg. He was also a Korea and Vietnam veteran, retiring from the U.S. Army in 1968 after serving his country with honor for 24 years.

Following retirement, Les settled his family in Colorado Springs, CO, and began a second career in Civil Service at Fort Carson.

Les was an American patriot, loving family man, and an outgoing loyal friend to many. He loved to play bridge, go out for Sunday brunch, and was an avid Vikings football fan. He is deeply missed.

Les is survived by his wife Shirl Bodine, daughter Barbara Landis, son Dan Bodine, and sister Pat Thune. Les is also survived by four grandchildren, Drew & Taylor Landis, and Devon & Claire Bodine.

A memorial service was held Tuesday, January 12, at 2:00 PM at Shrine of Remembrance Funeral Home, 1730 East Fountain Boulevard, in Colorado Springs.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggested donations to Paralyzed Veterans of America, 7 Mill Brook Road Wilton, NH 03086.