Jacob Antone Frank Milavic

Jacob Antone Frank Milavic, known to many as “Jack,” passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 21, 2025. He was born on July 29, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois, to Jacob and Antoinette Milavic.

Jack led a life of extraordinary service, courage, and dedication to both his country and community. His military journey began at the age of 16 when he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps before reaching the legal minimum age. After being honorably discharged upon discovery of his true age, he re-enlisted at 17 and began what would become a distinguished, multi-branch military career.

As a Marine, Jack trained with the elite Underwater Demolition Team and participated in joint training with foreign forces to help shape USMC Special Operations doctrine. His overseas assignments included six-month tours with both the French Foreign Legion and the British Special Boat Service (SBS). He served as an advisor to the South Vietnamese Army and spent four years with the 2nd Force Reconnaissance Company. A certified parachutist and scuba diver, he was honorably discharged from the Marine Corps with the rank of Corporal.

Jack then joined the U.S. Army, completed Special Forces training at Fort Bragg, and deployed to Vietnam with a Green Beret A-Team. After returning stateside, he became a U.S. Army helicopter and fixed-wing pilot, completing two combat tours in Vietnam as an aviator. For his heroism in combat, he was awarded two Bronze Star Medals with "V" Device for valor. He also served as a flight instructor at the U.S. Army Flight School at Fort Rucker, Alabama where he further cemented his legacy by mentoring the next generation of Army aviators.

After leaving active duty, Jack joined the Army Reserves, where he continued to serve with distinction. He retired with the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 5 (CWO5).

During his time in a Florida-based military helicopter unit, Jack responded to the tragic crash of Eastern Airlines Flight 401. Though a verbal order was given to stand down, Jack launched rescue helicopters anyway, believing lives were at risk. While initially reprimanded and threatened with disciplinary action, he was ultimately awarded a commendation medal for his courageous decision that contributed to saving lives.

Following his active-duty military career in Florida, Jack was an actor and took on roles in film and television. His strong presence and discipline served him well both on screen and behind the scenes, adding yet another layer to a truly multifaceted life.

Beyond the military, Jack remained dedicated to public service. He worked as a Dade County Deputy Sheriff before beginning a long and successful career with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In the early 1990s, he was transferred to Oklahoma City, where he also joined the Oklahoma Army National Guard. In 2002, he was selected by the FAA to assist in establishing the Egyptian Ministry of Civil Aviation—an international recognition of his aviation expertise.

Jack held a Master’s Degree in Business Administration and Management from Oklahoma City University and a Ph.D. from Cambridge International University in International Diplomacy.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 20 years, Sylvia; children Mendy, Mike, and John Brannon; and his cherished grandson, Thomas Brannon, who lovingly called him “Poppy Jack.” His memory will also be cherished by his brother Anthony Frank Milavic, sister Mary Rose Milavic Horan, nephew John Horan, his wife Pam, and niece Kathy Horan.

A funeral service honoring Jack will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at Smith & Kernke Funeral Home, with internment to follow at Resurrection Memorial Cemetery with full military honors.

Jack lived a life defined by bravery, leadership, and service. He will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing him.