OBITUARY: Valiant Air Command Commander Norm Daniels Passed Away July 21

on-site memorial for volunteers and members will be held

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of the Valiant Air Command’s beloved Commander, Norm Daniels, who departed this world during the late hours of July 21.

His leadership, passion, and unwavering dedication have left an indelible mark on our organization and everyone who had the honor of knowing him.

Under Norm’s guidance, the Valiant Air Command soared to new heights, preserving the legacy of aviation history and inspiring future generations. His vision and commitment to our mission were unparalleled, and his absence will be deeply felt by all members of our community.

Norm was not only a leader but also a mentor, a friend, and a beacon of strength. His contributions extended beyond the walls of our museum, touching the lives of countless individuals with his generosity and spirit.

His hands-on dedication to the restoration of iconic aircraft was nothing short of extraordinary, helping to bring new life to the B-52 cockpit, the Canberra, T-33, F-105, F-4, F-100, F-11, and more. These restorations stand as a testament to his skill and devotion, ensuring these magnificent aircraft will continue to inspire awe and educate visitors for generations to come.

As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate his remarkable life and the legacy he leaves behind. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. While they will be holding a private ceremony, there are plans to hold an on-site memorial for volunteers and members, details of which will be forthcoming.

We will honor his memory by continuing the work he was so passionate about, ensuring that the Valiant Air Command remains a testament to his extraordinary leadership and dedication.

Rest in peace, Norm. Your spirit will forever soar with the aircraft you cherished and the people you inspired.

WATCH: The almost 500 volunteers of Titusville’s Valiant Air Command’s Warbird Air Museum keep the flame of history alive for future generations. Founded in 1977, the museum has a continually growing collection of approximately 50 military aircraft from the early days of aviation to the present day. (Video produced in 2018)

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – The almost 500 volunteers of Titusville’s Valiant Air Command’s Warbird Air Museum keep the flame of history alive for future generations.

“Volunteers are the heart and soul of our warbird organization,” said a Valiant Air Command spokesperson.

“Their dedication to the preservation of these aircraft, and to other museum tasks, is great testament to their passion to not only preserve the history of the aircraft that protected our country, but also to honor the men and women who served our country during our time of greatest need.”

The museum could not exist without volunteers, as tour guides give an average of anywhere between 12 to 24 hours per week and our maintenance volunteers give anywhere between 16 and 34 hours per week.

Founded in 1977, the museum has a continually growing collection of approximately 50 military aircraft from the early days of aviation to the present day.

The museum’s beloved flagship, the Tico Belle, is a monument to the men and women who served in World War II.

The Douglas C-47 Skytrain survived D-Day and went on to serve a distinguished record of combat in the liberation of Europe and later participated in the Berlin Airlift.

Volunteers, many of them veterans or related to veterans, keep the grand old lady aloft so she can continue to tell her story. During the museum’s annual airshow, the Tico Belle is always the queen of the show.

From uniforms to weapons, the museum has amassed an impressive collection of memorabilia That offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the history of military aviation.

Each spring, the metal birds flock to Space Coast Regional Airport, home airstrip for the museum. Here, 80-year-old biplanes and modern aircraft convene for a weekend of flight, to the delight of thousands of Space Coast residents.

During the airshow, the museum depends on hundreds of volunteers to make the show possible.

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