On Tuesday, August 27, 2024, Chicago and the world of maritime history lost a distinguished advocate and passionate steward of naval heritage. Captain Dave Truitt, renowned for his dedication to preserving Chicago's maritime legacy and his profound commitment to service, passed away, leaving behind a legacy rich with community and historical significance.
Captain Truitt's connection to the water began in Hyde Park, where his love for Lake Michigan and family boating traditions shaped his lifelong dedication to maritime affairs. His formative experiences in Hobart, Indiana, and on Lake Michigan instilled in him a deep bond with both land and sea, influencing his future endeavors.
Truitt's legal career, shaped by his education at the University of Chicago Law School, was marked by his commitment to using his success for the greater good. His philanthropic efforts included founding Olive-Harvey College to expand educational opportunities for underserved communities.
Captain Truitt's service in the U.S. Army and Department of Defense during the Cold War demonstrated his dedication to national security. His contributions during this critical period highlighted his commitment to protecting his country.
His nearly 14-year tenure as president of the Friends of the Chicago Public Library was characterized by his drive to enhance library services, particularly in underserved neighborhoods. His efforts to bridge the digital divide through the introduction of public-use computers in libraries left a lasting impact, earning him national recognition with two appointments to the White House Conference on Libraries and Information Services.
Captain Truitt's dedication to maritime history and nautical service was profound. As Chairman of the USS Midway Memorial Committee for the Navy League and founding Chairman of the Chicago Marine Heritage Society, he played a pivotal role in preserving and celebrating Chicago’s maritime heritage. His service extended to the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, where he held various leadership roles, including Flotilla Commander and Coast Guard-licensed Ship Master. His contributions to boating organizations like the Jackson Park Yacht Club, Columbia Yacht Club, and Chicago Yacht Club emphasized inclusivity and expanded boating opportunities.
In recognition of his leadership and dedication, Captain Truitt was honored with the 2022 Maritime Heritage Award by the Chicago Navy Memorial Foundation. His significant contributions to the Foundation were highlighted by the premieres of his documentary Heroes on Deck: World War II on Lake Michigan at Kalamazoo College, the U.S. Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C., and Chicago’s Navy Pier in 2016.
A particularly notable moment came when the Foundation arranged for Captain Truitt to personally brief Adm. John Richardson, Chief of Naval Operations, on his role in establishing the Battle of Midway exhibit. This special briefing took place at the entrance to Concourse A at Chicago’s Midway International Airport on July 1, 2017, directly in the terminal where the exhibit is housed. This event underscored Truitt’s pivotal role in bringing the exhibit to the public and highlighted his ongoing commitment to preserving naval history.
Captain Truitt's support for historical documentaries such as Lincoln Is Crying: the Grifters, Grafters, and Governors of Illinois, Eastland: Chicago’s Deadliest Day, and City at War – Chicago, underscored his commitment to preserving and sharing pivotal historical narratives through the Chicago Marine Heritage Society. These projects reflect his belief in the power of history to shape our future.
His extensive philanthropic efforts extended to organizations like the Christmas Tree Ship, the Great Lakes Naval Museum, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Pritzker Military Museum & Library. Captain Truitt’s belief in improving the world through thoughtful giving was evident in his support for these institutions, which continue to benefit from his generosity.
Captain Truitt’s life exemplified the impact of dedication and service. His mantra, “You have an opportunity not just to die with more money but to improve the world if you so wish,” encapsulates his extraordinary approach to philanthropy and service. His passing leaves a void, yet his legacy of impact and dedication will continue to inspire and resonate for generations to come.
Tribute to Capt. Dave Truitt
