Daniel T. Kirk
Lt. Col. United States Army, Balloon Pilot, Supported Veterans, Introduced children to ballooning
Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Kirk was known as "Captain Kirk" to all who knew and loved him. Dan served his country in the United States Army and achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
Daniel T. Kirk was a passionate Lighter-than-Air Balloon Pilot. For 30 years Dan enjoyed ballooning, often flying his Starship competitively across the countryside.
Dan wanted to make a difference in other people's lives. He was generous; and had a huge heart for serving U.S. Military`Veterans. Trying to bring recognition to all service members, his balloons usually sported a "Support Our Troops" banner and an American flag.
Dan was well known in Delaware for his willingness to bring aviation to children. He enjoyed teaching children about ballooning, visiting schools and encouraging young people to learn to fly.
Dan was married to his sweetheart Janice Kirk for five years, and has two grown children (Becky and David) from a previous marriage.
Though he introduced scores of people to the joy of aviation, Dan was killed in a ballooning accident on May 9, 2014. Dan will be buried in Arlington Cemetery on November 12, 2014 with full military honors.
Dan did what he loved, and was always seen dressed with his western wear, boots and cowboy hat. When asked if he was from the West, he would just smile and reply, "yes, Western-Delaware!".
