C1C Daniel H Jenkins, Class of 1997, Dies of Rock Climbing Injuries
By Capt. Douglas H. Jenkins III, Daniel’s older brother
Cadet 1st Class Daniel Haig Jenkins was born in Chandler, Ariz. on Oct. 14, 1971 to Doug and Lois Jenkins. Dan graduated from Chatfield High School in Littleton, CO, in 1990. He attended Colorado University at Boulder for one year and then enlisted in the Air Force and was stationed at Beale AFB, CA as a crew chief for the U-2. His ambition was to attend the Air Force Academy, and he was awarded an appointment from the enlisted ranks in 1992.
He went to the Air Force Academy Prep School and graduated in 1993. Dan entered into the Air Force Academy Class of 1997. He was a member of CS17 and CS24, serving on the Cadet Honor Committee and playing varsity lacross. He was due to graduate in May 1997 with an assignment to Undergraduate Pilot Training.
Dan was fatally injured in a rock climbing accident on Good Friday, and his soul went to be with the Lord on Easter Sunday, March 30, 1997. A memorial service, which was attended by over 1200 friends and relatives, was held at the Cadet Chapel on April 3, 1997. Dan was buried at the Air Force Academy Cemetery that same day.
Dan’s legacy lives on through the hundreds of lives he has touched. He was deeply involved with the Seekers Christian group at the Academy and at First Presbyterian Church downtown. Dan had a heart for people and ministered through Bible Studies he led, close friendships, and impromptu prayer sessions. He had a zest for life on Earth but an even greater passion for things eternal. We rest in the knowledge that Dan has “pressed on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called him heavenward in Christ Jesus.” And his challenge that remains for us is this: Love people and serve the Lord. Donations in lieu of flowers may be sent to the Dan Jenkins Memorial Fund, Colorado National Bank Southwest, 8441 W. Bowles Avenue, Littleton, Cob. 80123. Portions of these funds will be used to send young men and women on a short-term mission to Ghana, Africa, a trip Dan was planning to make this summer upon graduation.
See photo below of C/Major Dan Jenkins, '97 and his proud dad, Doug Jenkins, '64.
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