Steven M. Arendt, a Virginia Beach,VA resident for most of his life, grew up in Alexandria, Minnesota and was a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Class of 1966. He was designated a Naval Aviator in 1967 and went on to fly the A-6 Intruder. He participated in combat operations in Vietnam while deployed with VA 145 aboard the USS Enterprise in 1969. He was designated a Naval Intelligence Officer in 1974 and proudly completed 30 years of military service in June of 1996. His personal awards included three Legions of Merit, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, three Meritorious Service Medals, the Air Medal, the Navy Commendation Medal and various service and campaign ribbons.

Steven's love of flying was demonstrated in many ways. As a youth he spent many hours meticulously constructing model airplanes. As a graduate of Annapolis he became a pilot and flew the A-6 Intruder. Later in life he sometimes frightened fellow car passengers as he would be driving down the road and a plane would fly over and he would be checking it out instead of paying attention to the road. Steven read Aviation Week, Flight Journal, Air & Space and Flying magazines from cover to cover and kept up with the latest innovations in aviation. He even went to the trouble to mail these magazines to family members so they could enjoy them as well. Friends will miss his frequent emails forwarding spectacular videos and photos showcasing aircraft of varying vintages and descriptions. Steve had for many years wanted to visit the EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh and finally got his wish in 2010. Steve was a Naval officer first but always a pilot at heart.

It was Steven'?’s wish to express his deep appreciation to all those he served with in the Navy. He wanted them to know they had his deepest respect and admiration for their service to our country.

Captain Steven M. Arendt USN (Ret) was interred at Arlington National Cemetery on August 14, 2012. Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 40 years, Sherry , his mother Rose, his brothers, Joe, Bill, Tom and John and his sister Mary Jane and their respective families along with many other relatives and friends. Steven was preceded in death by his father, Robert, and his sister, Ann.