A Celebration of Life: Remembering Francis “Frank” Owen McDermott

For those who may not have already heard, NDTA is saddened to report that Mr. Francis “Frank” Owen McDermott, an NDTA member since 1968, passed away Nov.19, 2024. Frank was NDTA’s General Counsel for more than 55 years, providing expert legal opinion on matters of importance to the association and national defense. In 2018, Frank was awarded the Joseph A. Torsani Memorial Award for Lifetime Service and Achievement in recognition of his invaluable guidance and support to NDTA. 

Frank loved NDTA deeply and considered his service at NDTA as a service to his country. NDTA is here today, after 80 years, in large part due to Frank’s guidance and encouragement. He was a national treasure whose legacy made an indelible mark on the US warfighter, the transportation industry, and the defense efforts of this nation. As Frank crosses the largest ocean of all, we will carry on with his heritage in our hearts.

A Celebration of Life Mass will be held for Frank at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 3305 Glen Carlyn Road, Falls Church, Va., on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 2 p.m.  Please find more details related to Frank’s life and the celebration of life service here.