[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E722]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF DAN FORDICE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. SAM GRAVES

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 21, 2026

  Mr. GRAVES. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of Dan 
Fordice, a veteran, businessman, accomplished warbird pilot, and 
patriot, who devoted his life to serving others, preserving our 
Nation's military history, and honoring America's veterans.
  Dan approached every chapter of his life with a strong sense of duty 
and purpose. His 13 years of service in the United States Army and 
Mississippi Army National Guard shaped the leadership and patriotism he 
later brought to his family business, the construction industry, 
historic aviation, and his work supporting veterans. Throughout his 
life, Dan remained guided by his faith, his family, and his commitment 
to giving back.
  Following his service, Dan continued his family's legacy at Fordice 
Construction Company, serving as Vice President until his retirement in 
2023. He followed in his father's footsteps by serving as National 
President of the Associated General Contractors of America from 2022 to 
2023. His leadership brought people together throughout the industry 
and ensured contractors of every size had a voice.
  As an accomplished warbird owner and pilot, Dan demonstrated his deep 
appreciation for aviation history through the operation and 
preservation of World War II-era and other historic aircraft. He served 
on the Commemorative Air Force General Staff Board of Directors, 
proudly flew his P-51D Mustang, Charlotte's Chariot II, and helped 
return the original C-47 That's All, Brother to Europe for the 75th 
anniversary of D-Day. Through these remarkable aircraft, Dan helped 
bring history to life for countless Americans.
  Dan's dedication to America's veterans extended far beyond the 
cockpit. He founded the Southern Heritage Air Foundation to preserve 
veterans' stories and educate future generations about their service 
and sacrifice. In 2013, he founded the Warrior Bonfire Program to 
support post-9/11 Purple Heart veterans through fellowship and 
opportunities for healing and recovery. Whether flying a historic 
aircraft, listening to a veteran's story, or leading the construction 
industry, Dan served others with conviction, compassion, and humility.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Dan Fordice 
for his service to our country, his leadership in the construction and 
aviation communities, and his lifelong dedication to America's 
veterans. His legacy will live on through the historic aircraft and 
stories he preserved, the veterans he supported, the organizations he 
helped build, and the countless people he inspired. My prayers are with 
his family and all who knew and loved him. May Dan have blue skies.

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