DENNIS DRAKOPOULOS

     Lt. Colonel Dennis Drakopoulos, USAF Retired, a proud veteran passed away to be with the Lord on Tuesday, May 14, 2024. 

     He was born on May 18, 1952, in New York City, New York. Dennis was the son of the late Jerry and Athena Drakopoulos. Dennis graduated from City College of New York with a Bachelor of Science degree in Health & Physical Education, a Master of Arts degree in Counseling Services Program from Rider University, and a Master of Science degree in Systems Management from Capitol Technology University. Dennis was pursuing his Ph.D. in Cybersecurity.

     Upon graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree, Dennis became a police officer with the NYPD and a high school teacher. With a desire to help and serve others in a different capacity, Dennis enlisted in the United States Air Force where he had a successful career in multiple duty assignments across the continental United States and overseas.

     As a non-commissioned officer, Dennis began as a pararescue with the 55th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery at Eglin AFB in Florida and later as a Site Development Specialist for the 823 Civil Engineering Red Horse Squadron at Hurlburt Field in Florida.

     Motivated by a deep sense of duty and commitment to serve our country, Dennis was recommended for Officer Candidate School in Texas. After graduating, he attended the Communications-Electronics Officer Course in Kessler AFB in Mississippi and completed 40 hours of computer courses during off duty.

     During his career, Dennis was honored with numerous awards and decorations:  Defense Meritorious Service Medal w/1 Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Meritorious Service Medal w/1Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Force Commendation Medal w/1 Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award w/4 Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal w/2 Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Air Force Organizational Excellence Award w/2 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, National Defense Service Medal w/1 Bronze Star, Armed Force Expeditionary Medal, Air Force Overseas Short-Tour Ribbon, Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon w/1 Silver Oak Leaf Cluster, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, Air Force Training Ribbon, Air Force Good Conduct Medal w/1 Silver and 1 Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Space Command Badge, Master Communication Badge, JCS Badge, and Commanders Badge.

     Dennis began his second career as a Cybersecurity Contractor with Northrop Grumman at Quantico Marine Base. Later, he worked for Booz Allen Hamilton at Ft. Meade and, afterwards, at Ft. Belvoir where he concluded his career. 

     As a naturally gifted and talented athlete, Dennis was a golden-glove boxer, a master scuba diver, a Black Belt in Judo, and a triathlete. He enjoyed hiking, taking leisurely walks, going to the movies and restaurants, and dancing. Dennis was fond of reading, listening to all genres of music, and collecting an assortment of DVD’s. 

     His belief, devotion, and faith in God never wavered despite the adversaries he endured.

     Dennis is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Alice, and family members. We are truly grateful and blessed for his kind, loving, and generous demeanor. His love of life, his smile, and his laughter will echo in our ears and forever be in our hearts and in our thoughts always.

     Dennis, you left us too soon, but you left us with our hearts full of love and beautiful memories. Now, you are one of God’s angels and will be watching over us from above. We love you and will see you again when we meet in heaven.

     The viewing and visitation for Dennis will be held on May 22, 2024 , Wednesday evening 6:00 to 8:00 PM and Thursday morning 9:30 to 10:30 AM at The Lankenau Funeral Home, 31 Elizabeth St., Pemberton Borough, NJ.  The funeral service will be held on May 23, 2024, Thursday morning 11:00 AM at Grace Episcopal Church, 43 Elizabeth St., Pemberton Borough, NJ 08068.  The final interment with military honors will be at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 350 Provinceline Rd., Arneytown, N. Hanover Twp., NJ. 

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