<p><em>Dennis James Cosca</em> was born in Oakland, CA on September 11, 1932. His early childhood, filled with adventure, predetermined his future in the military. In early 1951 he sought admission to the United States Military Academy. He was successful and in early July 1951 made his way to West Point, where he joined the Class of 1955. On July 3, 1951 he and his newly acquired classmates were sworn in and his adventure began. The first stop was Beast Barracks, six weeks of indoctrination into West Point and its unique leader building program. Dennis survived this experience, and at the conclusion of the six-week period he was assigned to his permanent lettered company. <br />Cadet life agreed with Dennis. Academically he met all challenges and completed his four years in the top quarter of the class. Athletics also played a significant role during his four years at West Point, playing soccer all four years and basketball for two years. He also found time to sing in the Catholic Choir and participate in the Debate Council, while also joining the Fishing and Handball clubs. A popular member of his company, his companymates referred to him as “Dennis the Menace of San Jose.” <br />Based on his high class standing (67/470), Dennis had the opportunity to select Air Force as his future branch of service. Shortly after graduation he married his sweetheart, Shirley Boersig, and together they began their life in the U.S. Air Force. Dennis’ first Air Force assignment was to McAllen, TX, where he underwent pilot training and earned his wings. He then went to Laredo, TX, where he participated in additional training. His first flying assignment was with a unit at Mather Air Force Base in Sacramento, CA. Things did not work out as Dennis has hoped, and in 1959 he resigned his commission to begin work with IBM as a data processing representative. Three years later (1962) Dennis was recalled to active duty and flew with Mather’s unit during the Cuban Missile Crisis. It was during this tour that Dennis had time to talk with fellow pilots and associated medical personnel. As a consequence, in 1962, Dennis, who had been interested in a medical career, decided not to remain with IBM. He, Shirley, and five children moved to San Francisco, CA, where he attended dental school at the University of California, San Francisco. Dennis continued with his service to our country as a pilot in the Air Force Reserves. Four years later (1966), with degree in hand, Dennis, Shirley and children returned to Sacramento, established a thriving dental practice, and embarked on many adventures with his family and friends. <br />Dennis had an innate interest in opportunities that came his way, finding joy in traveling camping, fishing, hunting, backpacking, abalone diving, tennis, and golf (to name but a few). <br />In retrospect, Dennis had a wonderful family and many dear friends with whom he shared his multitude of activities and escapades. May he rest in peace.</p>