Leslie Dillon Carter

Leslie D. Carter, Jr.
October 30, 1926- November 30, 2025

The son of a career Army officer, Les grew up on Army posts throughout the US, the Philippines, and Panama Canal Zone. He graduated high school from Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire and in 1948 from the Military Academy at West Point, NY.

Les and Ginnie Harkins, the love of his life, were married at West Point immediately after graduation and enjoyed 65 joyful years together until her death in 2013 at Park Springs. Les earned a master's degree from Tulane University. A long time Army paratrooper, he held the Army rating if master parachutist.

He served two tours in Vietnam. In the second tour, he commanded an elite ground combat battalion of the 101 Airbourne Division. While commanding that battalion, he was decorated six times for valor in combat receiving the US Silver Star and two Bronza Stars, and three Vietnamese Gallantry Crosses. He was also awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, twelve Air Medals and the Legion of Merit, the Defense Superior Service Medal, a second Legion of Merit, and two Commendation Medals.

He was grateful for the opportunity to serve his country for a full military career. He performed that serve with honor and distinction and enjoyed every day of his military service.

After retiring from the Army, Les settled in St. Petersburg, FL. He was active in the St. Pete sailing community, cruising throughout the Gulf of Mexico. He helped form the Dolphin Cruising Club of Tamp Bay-still active today, serving for several years as commodore. He also served for eight years as President of the West Point Society, Florida West Coast.

He moved to Park Springs in 2004 and subsequently became an active participant and leader in many activities throughout that community.

Les was devoted to his family and derived his greatest joy from them. He is survived by his daughters, Betsy Campbell, Ginger Matyko, and his son, Leslie, III (Sam); five grandchildren and six great grandchildren. His life was a lesson in love, hard work, and community service, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire and guide all who knew him.

Burial, with full military honors, will be in Arlington National Cemetery, Virigina, at a time to be determined later.

The family acknowledges with deep appreciation the many expressions of love, comfort, and support from the Park Springs community.

To live on in hearts left behind is to not completely die