United States of America
Headstone of Thomas Jay Deniston
U.S. Air Force · United States United States

Thomas Jay Deniston

Died October 16, 1990

Thomas Jay Deniston served in the U.S. Air Force for 4 years and 5 months. Thomas served during the years of the Cold War.

How He Died
Manner Accident
Cause Multiple traumatic injuries
What Happened

Conservation Officer Thomas Deniston was killed in an aircraft accident at Smith Field near State Road 3 and Interstate 69 in Allen County. Conservation Officer Deniston was traveling in a Cessna 172 Skyhawk when the aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff. The plane became engulfed in flames upon impact and was nearly completely destroyed. The pilot who was a dispatcher, and a jail officer, both of the Whitley County Sheriff's Department and off duty were also killed in the crash. Conservation Officer Deniston was investigating deer being hunted illegally and had planned on photographing duck blinds and possible waterfowl bating. Conservation Officer Deniston had served with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources for two years and was a US Air Force veteran.

Survivors
He was survived by his wife, four sisters, two brothers and parents.
Media
Thomas Jay Deniston
Thomas Jay Deniston 0 views
Service Record
U.S. Air Force
1983 – 1987
Also Served
Indiana Department of Natural Resources
Conservation Officer
Memorials
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Panel 10W · Line 18 cut as THOMAS JAY DENISTON
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier neuraspine_01krbxtqq5xwqste9z8s3cz28h
Record added August 2, 2026 neuraweb.nw
Stewarded by neuraweb.nw
Last updated August 2, 2026

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In tribute

I served 1985 to 1993. You served too, before the badge - different uniform, same idea. You go where you are sent and you do not get to pick the call.

Conservation Officer Deniston gave the Indiana Department of Natural Resources 2 years.

Thank you for your service to the Indianapolis community, and for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.

Rest easy, brother.

— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993

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