Personal Data
              David C. Hilmers was born on January 28, 1950, in
         Clinton, Iowa. He is married to Lynn Beneke. David has two
         grown sons. David likes playing the piano.  He also likes
         gardening and playing sports.

Education
    In 1968, Hilmers graduated from Central Community High School.  He attended Cornell College and received a Bachelor of Arts in mathematics.  He received a Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering and the degree of electrical engineer from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School. 

Experience
    In July 1980, Hilmers was selected as a NASA astronaut. He completed the initial training period in August 1981.  A few years later, he was chosen to be on the standby crew.  During his term at NASA, he worked in many different jobs.  He worked with Shuttle software and the Astronaut Office training coordinator. 

    Hilmers flew on four space flights.  He logged over 493 hours in space before he retired from NASA in October 1992.  He is currently enrolled as a student at the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas.

Honors

•   Outstanding Athlete of Midwest Conference in 1971
   

•   Graduated Summa Cum Laude from Cornell College     Awarded an NCAA Post-Graduate Fellowship
   

•  Recipient of three NASA Exceptional Service Medals
   

•  Three NASA Space Flight Medals
   

• American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Haley Space Flight Award for 1988 American Astronautical Society Flight Achievement Award for 1988
   

• Department of Defense Distinguished Service Medal       Meritorious Service Medal
   

•  Defense Superior Service Medal