Horak Airport History
US Army Green Beret Colonel Jim Horak, Sr. (retired) and family have
lived here since 1928. Starting in 1958 with the intention of becoming
a crop dusting aircraft maintenance business, Horak field instead became
a center for parachuting and freefall training. Beginning with the Navy and
civilian parachutists, the Grandview Parachute Club grew eventually into
Emerald Coast Skydiving Center, Inc. Thru the years, several military
and government groups, including the US Marine Recon, US Air Force Commandos,
US Marshall's Special Operations Group, German military freefallers, and
US Goverment intelligence agencies trained at Horak field.
Alongside the military, thousands of civilian skydivers called Horak
field their home dropzone. Until his passing in 2013, Chief Instructor US Army
Green Beret Major Jim Horak, Jr. was an integral part of the operations at Horak
field. His contributions and dedication to skydiving helped ensure many
more people made safe and fun jumps at the field or due south to the beach
at the Flora-Bama.
The business changed hands a few times and finally closed in 2014. It
had often been said that it was the second oldest drop zone in the
country. It certainly has had the honor to be affiliated with some of
the most respected military freefall groups in the nation.
This geocache is dedicated to Jim Horak, Jr. and all the people who called
Horak field home. Not only will it be remembered as a place where many
learned to spread their wings, Horak field will also remain a home for
Tired Wings to Rest.