David M. Collins

Fallen Hero’s Hometown and State: VA Beach, VA

Branch of Service: U.S. Navy

Rank: Special Operations Chief

David M. Collins enlisted in the Navy in 1988 and later attended Basic Underwater Demolition Training/SEAL Training, graduating with Class 203. At SEAL Team FOUR, he completed three deployments to South America, then transferred to SEAL Team TEN where he completed combat deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq, notably serving in Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.

Dave was known as a kind soul who befriended everyone he met. He made everyone feel special and took deliberate care to look after those who were less fortunate. A deeply spiritual and religious man, he was honored to serve his church, Star of the Sea. Dave was an amazing father and husband and taught his children the most important lessons in life — humility, kindness, loyalty and love.

Dave continued service after death by donating his brain to research. The findings helped unlock the damaging effects of blast waves on the brain that have changed the conversation around brain injuries and veteran suicide.

Age: 45

Date of Death: March 12, 2014