David Michael Kozak was born on March 1, 1947 to Mr. and Mrs. Leon Kozak and grew up in Hackensack, N.J. In 1965, he enrolled in Saint Peter’s College and joined the ROTC program. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Management on June 15, 1969 and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Army Reserve.

Lt. Kozak became a Field Artillery Unit Commander with the 1st Battalion, 82nd Artillery, Americal Division, USARV. He was sent on a tour of duty to Quang Tin, South Vietnam on March 6, 1970. On May 11, 1970, he was killed in action while guarding three bridges near Chu Lai. The official casualty report shows Kozak as "Killed in Action" by enemy small arms fire at Khuong Nhon Village. He was 23 years old.

Kozak’s niece, Jennifer Kozak-Huss, wrote in May 10, 2005, “It’s unfortunate that we never got to meet each other. I bet we are much alike in many ways. Everyone misses you, especially your brother. We love you and look forward to seeing you in heaven.”

Lt. Kozak was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart, National Defense Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, Vietnam National Order 5th Class and a Bronze Star Medal (General Order 4679 dated May 15, 1970, Americal Division).