Landon Ray "Lanny" Hutchens Sr.

Landon Ray Hutchens, Sr., "Lanny," age 73, passed away in his sleep at his home in Dallas, Texas, Jan. 19. A Vietnam War Veteran, he served two combat tours (1968-69, 1970-71) as a U.S. Army Huey helicopter gunship pilot with the 189th Aviation Brigade and 11th Cavalry Regiment earning numerous decorations and air medals. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Hutchens, "Avenger 4," was shot down five times in combat, once crashing landing into the Battle of Dak Tao where he and his men fought as infantry until the seize was broken by U.S. Forces. His proudest accomplishment was that the none of soldier under his command were killed and all came home safely to their families. Major Hutchens later served as an Air Force AWACS pilot and command and control warfare officer, helping plan the air campaign during Operation Desert Storm. After his military career, Lanny became Senior Vice President for Marketing and Business Development of Altech Services, Inc. A serious mariner, Lanny sailed his sailboat in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, Aegean Sea, Caribbean and Sea of Japan. He also earned his large tonnage certification as Captain in the Merchant Marines. Lanny also helped start the Central Colombian Coffee Company. Lanny is survived by his five children, Landon II, Stacy, Lanna, Leslie and Jeff. And by his ex-wife and beloved Sandra. Memorial Services will be held Saturday, Feb. 23 at 1 p.m. at Spring Creek Community Church, 2660 Belt Line Rd, Garland, Texas.