John M. Agrey Award
2001 Recipient
Jack Daniels
Jack K. Daniels' 52-year career in aviation exemplifies innovation and dedication.
Five North Dakota governors knew Daniels' dedication to aviation, naming him to 36 years of service on the Aeronautics Commission Board. A member of the North Dakota Aviation Hall of Fame and recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Federal Aviation Administration, Daniels' appreciation for all things aeronautical began in high school where he first studied aviation mechanics and worked at Mountain States Aviation in hometown, Billings, Mont.
In 1946 he moved to Williston, N.D., where he first worked for, and then purchased, Stockman Flying Service. Only four years later he bought the company and established SerVair Inc., an air charter, air frames and power plant repair station he operated until his 1994 retirement.
From 1950 to 1985, Daniels managed the Williston airport, helping develop Soulin Field into a 680-acre facility with an Instrument Landing System, customs office, and a NOAA Weather Station. The Williston City Commission dedicated the Jack Daniels Airpark at Soulin Field in his honor.
Known statewide and nationally for his aviation advocacy, Daniels served on the National Aviation and Transportation Association Board for 11 years. He was instrumental in creating the National Committee of City and States for Air Service which serves communities in the Essential Air Services Program.
Daniels helped form the North Dakota Aviation Association, serving as both director and chairman.
