- Fred Robbins, May 13, 2008

The staff at BestNetPC and Ocean Atlantic Computers will miss you both very much. Thank you for all you have given us.

On Saturday morning, while practicing at their home airport in Flagler County, FL, Montaine and Daniel where killed in a mid air collision .

The Staff at BestNetPC and Ocean Atlantic Computers in Palm Coast Florida will miss you both. Thank you for the entertainment and the smiles.

I will miss this Class A Act.

So sorry to hear of the great loss of Montaine and Daniel. A great loss for aviation, the airshow industry and especially for friends and fellow performers.

It is with great sadness I heard reported the passing
of an era. I have seen Daniel and Montaine perform at
a number of air shows all over the country. Never have
I seen such precision and sheer love of flight. Time
and time again, inspired by these two artists, I and
other pilots like me have been shown flight as art,
perhaps for the first time. It is sad to know the likes
of which will not be seen again.

Daniel and Montaine shall be welcomed by the angels on
high as two of their own.........

I and my colleagues at the Kennedy Space Center wish
to express our deepest sympathy all the family and friends
of Daniel and Montaine.

Darrel F. McMillan
Merritt Island, Florida

Daniel and Montaine were two of the most gracious and caring people that anyone would ever want to meet. Consumate professionals all the way, they gave us their time, their energy, and so much to enjoy and remember. We are fortunate to have been able to share some time with them. They and their families are in our prayers.

Their aerial ballet will always be remembered. Their pleasant manner and friendship will stay with forever. They passed the love of aviation along to so many.

Daniel and Montaine, Your graceful flying was an inspiration to all. Thank you for expressing the wonder of flight with your wings.

Fond Memories.

Since I was one of your first students over 25 years ago
and my family became yours, you brought us the love of
flight and love itself. Oh, how it hurts. Our prayers
are lifted for all affected.

Having known Daniel & Montaine since their early years in the U.S. we are greatly saddened
by their passing. As is often the case, we didn't express our love for them often enough.
I'm not quite sure how to say this, so I'll just blurt it out. Their love affair with each
other and aviation was unique and it spilled out on many of us. I don't think that either
could have faced the thought of life without the other. In that light, having gone into
eternity together and doing something that they loved was probably the way they would have
had it happen. They leave a hole in our lives for now, but we hope to see them again in
the not too distant future.

Danny & Montaine - WE LOVE YOU AND WILL MISS YOU

Fred & Ruth Willson

I remember when Daniel, and Montaine each came to America ... marveled at their early performances ... fought to get them on the waiver at Reading when the GADO Monitor arbitrarily said, "No" ... thrilled at their grace and their "oneness" both in the air and on the ground ... and reeled at the sudden exit Fate handed down. Nour and I have tempted that same Fate many a time as pilot and wingwalker in years gone by. Fly high little sparrows! Fly high! - Ron David

Hi I am Shane. My mother worked at the Flagler Airport.
I just want to say that they were great people and Many
people will miss you. And they loved to fly. That is all
they talked about around the airport. I just want to say
My your heart never leave the air.

To the family, friends, and other loved ones of the "French Connection." In aviation, many come and go, but few leave a permanent contrail in the skies. Rarely does the aviation community have the priviledge to witness such amazing talent as that which Daniel and Montaine demonstrated again and again, whether sky high or moving about the Earth's surface. No one truly knows the impact they may have on anothers life until they are gone. On behalf of my fellow aviators at Embry-Riddle and around the world, please accept my deepest condolances. A gap has been left which will never again be filled. After touching the face of God for so long, these two incredible people are now free to soar forever. You are in our prayers, and I look forward to sharing the skies with you again someday.

Having seen them perform (like millions of others) at many airshows over the years, this news was shocking. However, there is something in this tragedy we should all think about.

Fundamentally, flight isn't about the latest cool fighter jet, or the cost of avgas, or who has the lowest fares. Simply put, it's about freedom and beauty. Whether you are an active pilot or just like to watch birds soaring at the beach, the beauty of flight touches us in ways indescribable. Watching aerobatic performances lets us, for a little while at least, share in that beauty even while we are physically on the ground.

Daniel and Montaine took it one step further in that they shared this unique freedom first with each other and then with everyone they performed for. The world feels a little bit sadder and emptier today because of their absence - but on the whole, the entire world is a more beautiful place for what they brought to us all for so many years. You can't ask for too much more than that.

Our thoughts are with their loved ones... yet in the midst of the sadness, rejoice that they lived more fully than many ever know possible!!

-Merlin

In Reply to: French Connection posted by Thermals on May 27, 2000 at 18:31:25:

They will be sadly missed at Oshkosh. Their grace and enthusiasm were an inspiration to anyone involved in aviation. They and their loved ones are in our prayers.

Death is nothing at all; we have just slipped away into the next room. Whatever we were to each other, that we are still.
Call us by our old familiar names; speak to us in the easy way you always used. Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed together.
Play, smile, think of us, pray for us.
Let our name be ever the household word it always was. Let it be spoken without effort, without the ghost of a shadow on it.
Life means all that it ever meant. It is the same as it ever was. There is absolutely unbroken continuity. What is this death but an unfortunate accident?
Why should we be out of mind because we are out of sight? We are waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near, just around the corner.

It was with great sadness that I heard of the passing of Daniel and Montaigne. May they fly, forever joyously, in heaven.

Montaine and Daniel are now ready to perform the next act: the one in our memories.
Whoever had the privilege of meeting them will never forget their passion for aviation and the way they teached.
I will miss you.

I can barely believe that such a thing is possible... that two such extraordinary people could leave us so soon. The world is a greater place for having had them in it... and a sadder place now that they have left it FAR too soon.
Some of the most fun I have ever had was shooting air-to-air whilst canopy to canopy with this gifted pair... swapping horizons with abandon and watching the world tumble about us. I thank them both for that gift.
I loved them greatly and will miss them tremendously. God bless them...

As much as I love this sport, it sure can sting sometimes. Montaine was the first aerobatic pilot I ever met. Back in college, I knocked on their door unannounced, as a complete stranger. I explained how I had fallen in love with the CAP-10 after an airshow, and wanted to design a model of it. She and their chief instructor, Claude, went out of their way to help me out, photocopying plans, digging up various other info, and even letting me crawl all around their airshow airplanes, unsupervised, with my pad, ruler and camera. They always treated me with respect and friendship, even stopping to welcome me when I showed up at their contest later that year (which scored me some big-time points with the friends I flew out there with...).

Such a wonderful introduction to aerobatics. Such a tragic and painful loss. I'll miss her. I'm sorry that I never got to know Daniel. Fly safe, folks. The laws of physics are unforgiving.

Until we meet again,
Steve

I just saw on the news. "husband and wife team dies"
and I knew it had to be the "French Connection" who I saw
at the Cleveland airshow in 1995. I got out my photo album
and found I'd snapped two great photos of them in action
capturing the Blue Angel planes on the ground. They were
great and I recall thinking at the time how dangerous it must
be. At least they died doing what they loved.

Montaine and Daniel,
Thank you for your help and friendship. You will be missed by all of your fans.
Swift N78071

I saw the French Connection three times in Scranton PA.They were scheduled to be here in two weeks again-there next performance. You guys did a great show and will surely be missed by me. I had the opportunity to meet them and they are truely unforgettable. You will never be forgotten.

Your style and grace in the air were a reflection of who you were on the ground. We will miss you. Aloha.

My name is Nickolas and I am a very big French Connection fan. I saw Daniel and Montaine here in my hometown of Schenectady, New York in 1985 and 1990 and they were FANTASTIC. I was shocked when I went to their website and learned that they were killed yesterday morning. But, my heart and prayers go out to their families.

p.s. Daniel and Montaine I will never stop remembering you. You guys are always my favorite aerobatic performers. Me and my parents love you so much and see you guys in heaven.

The best....doing what they loved to do.

The best couple pilots were great peolple that made me honored by meeting them. You will still fly in my memory.

In Reply to: French Connection posted by Nancy Bob Talarczyk on May 28, 2000 at 07:37:49:

: The best....doing what they loved to do.

You now can soar forever.

Their kindnesses will be missed.

I'm very sorry for the loss of Daniel and Montaine.

They will be remembered for their grand contribution in aerobatics and the joy and inspiration they brought to everyone in each show they performed and each moment shared in their lives.

My thoughts and prayers are with them, their friends and family.

To Daniel and Montaine~
I stood on the beach at Ormond By-the-Sea and watched one of your planes fly down the coast just two or three days ago. The joy of your flying reached me all the way down to the sand. I thrilled at the other-worldly freedom you seemed to radiate while still aching in my heart from the grief of losing my uncle, Dodgie Stockmar, in a plane crash in Atlanta one year and nine days ago. Flying had been his whole life for over 50 years, and it all came to an end when a cable broke on the plane he was checking out with a friend.
My aunt wrote this poem that seems to mirror the way your close friends talk about your flying and what you both meant to them. Please look up my uncle over there. He flew down here regularly, and was well known, so you may already know him. He's a great guy, and I know you will all love flying without the limiting bonds of this little planet.
God Speed,
Kate Beall

In Loving Memory of Dodgie Stockmar
~tragically killed May 19, 1999~

Your life on earth was filled with love,
No thought of wealth or race.
Your reward? A runway paved of gold
With zoning all in place.

I can see you flying your new plane
Where skys are always blue,
With tail winds gently blowing-clear!
Dodgie's coming through.

The angels must be filled with awe
To witness how you fly;
Their halos waver just a bit
As you come rolling by.

The calls keep coming daily
To see how you're doing, dear.
They pause and utter disbelief
When I tell them you're not here.

That you're living in a better place
Free from pain, grief, and strife,
And I'm thankful to the Lord above
For bringing you into my life.

~Your loving wife,
Faye Stockmar

I've seen Daniel and Montaine perform countless times at Sussex NJ airshows and elsewhere. This is truly a loss to me and the aviation community.

I've often thought abut taking a aerobatic lesson or two but regrettably,never did.

My deepest sympathies to their families.
Jim

Great people,in and out of the sky.

Bob and Nancy Sie

Both were great people in and out of the sky.

Bob and Nancy Siegel

My sympathy in this tradgey. I flew with Montaine in the 70s in upstate New York. The airport was Sky Acers
I remember we got in to fly and strapped up and she forgot the key. I was new and she had a breakfast of eggs and garlic and by the time I got down I didn't feel very well. The joy of flying and love of life will not be forgotten. I'd been sorry that I lost track of this team and sorrier now.
Regina Leibowitz, Port Orange, Florida

Our deepest sympathies to the familes of Montaine Mallet and Danile Heligoin. It is such a shock to hear the news that two people who truly had the love of flight will no longer be with us.

Jack and Jean Hardy and the crew from Littlebrook Airpark

In Reply to: Gone but never forgotten posted by Gerry Bernadette Snider on May 28, 2000 at 08:29:54:

Sadness and good memories

Montaine:
Daniel:

F-GFNFE CAP 10 s/n 22 took off today from LFLP (Annecy) at 11:30 LT and flew to Carreau d'Arrache where you loved to ski. Half toll to inverted and a half roll back. For you.

You were my boss, my family, my connection to things I love most. Flying upside down and Marianne , my wife.

Godspeed.

Adam

This airshow business is an incredibly small fraternity...everybody knows everybody else. But there are those who truly stand out. Montaine and Danny were prime among those standouts. Not only were they consumate performers, they were the ultimate friends. As announcers, we enjoyed working with them because of their professionalism and showmanship. We valued their input in helping us to do our job better. As friends, they were the source of much good humor and great times. Montaine was a guiding light behind the MTOFC (Married To The Old Farts Club), an organization for air show performers who have a spouse at least 10-years older than them. Nancy is a member of that group and we both recall the great humor that Montaine brought to their annual proceedings at the ICAS convention. It is sad to lose such great friends and performers. The only compensation is that the "went West" together, doing that which they loved almost more than they loved each other. Godspeed, Danny and Montaine...we are all the richer for having known you.

Bill & Nancy Lowe
Big Mouth Productions
Rochester, NY

With Greatest Sympathy

I'm twelve years old and am devastated.
I'd always known them and they were like family to me.
They always treated me with love and kindness that
I will never forget. I miss them so much. I pray for
everyone that knew them to help us in this time of need.

I wish to express my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Daniel and Montaine.

It is with great sorrow that I heard the reports of the passing of Daniel & Montaine. I have seen the French Connection perform at a number of air shows. They had one of the most precise and graceful routines. You could tell by their performance that they enjoyed what they did.

It is sad to know this loving couple and aerobatic act will not be enjoyed by us again.

Lou Lafond
Osteen, Florida

You made our Connection the best.

Montaine& Daniel
Ihr beide habt die posie mit der Fliegerei verbunden und werdet nie vergessen sein.
Herzliches Beileid an die Familie und Freunde der beiden wundervollen Freunde und Piloten.

Heinz peier

You made our Connection the best.

Elaine and I wish to express our sadness over the passing of the french connection. We were honored to see them perform on many occassions and held them in great esteem. The world has lost a great pair.

We are saddened to hear of their accident. We first saw them in flying shows in at the Sussex Airport in Wantage,New Jersey back in 1983. God be with you.

The airshow fraternity is relatively small...everyone knows everyone else at least by face and name. But there are those who stand out and Danny and Montaine were such friends for us. Consumate performers and professionals, they always came to entertain. On a personal level, they were always ready to help other performers, including announcers, to do a better job. Montaine always made it a point to sit down before each show and go over any changes in the routine and what they hoped the announcer would do or say during their show. Danny was always ready to talk at length about the aircraft and aerobatics. Even more personally, we remember the fun times we've had with them at so many airshow sites. Montaine was the guiding light behind "MTOFC", Married To The Old Farts Club. Membership was limited to those in the airshow business whose spouse was at least 10-years older. This group of mostly women (Jimmy Franklin the only male member) meets each year at the annual ICAS Convention, primarily to consumer vast quantities of champagne! Montaine brought great humor and downright craziness to those sessions, of which Nancy was proud to be a part. If there is any consolation to be taken from this tragic passing of two such dear friends, it is the knowledge that they "went West" as a couple, doing the things they loved almost more than they loved each other. Godspeed, Danny and Montaine...you will be sorely missed but never forgotten.

Bill & Nancy Lowe
Big Mouth Productions
Rochester, NY

Montaine and Daniel,
everyone is waiting for you at your jubilee show in june, at home, in Aubigny, France.
you were about to quit airshows to play an active part in cap's development in America.
during all these years you have been flying caps in your unique, fair, elegant, simple way.
you vanish together to our eyes but in our hearts you inspire our action.
we miss you terribly.

Guy Pellissier and Dominique Roland.
Cap Aviation

Montaine and Daniel were without a doubt the best dual formation act in the world, bar none. They were generous and selfless during their (free) perfomances at Sun 'n Fun that helped promote all facets of aviation.

Their flight school provided a wealth of knowledge, experience and discipline that was carried away by hundreds of enriched pilots.

I am proud to have been a fellow performer and most of all among their huge family of friends.

I will treasure the memories as will the whole world.

Ron

Thank you for the memories and awe.

In Reply to: Sympathy to friends of Montaine and Daniel posted by Kimberly Sanders on May 27, 2000 at 18:36:55:

: So sorry to hear of the great loss of Montaine and Daniel. A great loss for aviation, the airshow industry and especially for friends and fellow performers.

We just lost a beautiful couple and they will be sorrily missed. I will miss there beautiful showes. They flew so beautifully together, we will always remember this.
God Bless and God Speed
Cal Wagner

In Reply to: Thanks posted by Mark Roberts on May 28, 2000 at 10:07:15:

Styles Aviation, Inc. & the folks of Sky Acres Airport(44n)where the French Connection started back in the 70's would like send their condolensces. Daniel & Montaine will be missed by all up north!

Time is short, but memories and friendship are everlasting. Thanks for all three.

Craig & Bonnie Fitzsimmons

They were true professionals and died doing what they loved the most.

They will be missed by all who knew and saw them.

Back in 1989, Daniel game me a ride in his CAP10, it was one of the best experiences of my life, and I will never forget it. From his inspiration, I have pursued to get my pilots license. Thanks for the memories, you will always be remembered by all.

Chris Fitzsimmons

This is a very sad day, we feel like a member of our own family has been taken.

A la famille

Nos mots n'apaiseront pas votre chagrin, nous partageons votre peine. Nous ne les oublirons jamais et ils seront toujours pres de nous dans notre coeur.

God bless you all. Dieu vous garde

Sincerement,

Jean, Francoise, Jessica and the staff at La Gourmandise

Daniel and Montaine: you were the best of the best. We shall miss you and will keep you always in our thoughts and hearts. Thanks for all the good times we had together. Au revoir, mes amis!

Lynne and Eric Doten

I was fortunate enough to fly a press hop with The French Connection in 1992. The couple was performing at a small town airshow in Gallatin, Tenn., just north of Nashville. In addition to being editor of the local paper covering the show, I was also a member of the airshow staff in charge of publicity. My unique position allowed me to spend a considerable amount of time with Montaine and Danielle for a full week. I have never met more cordial, accommodating people in my life. Their love of the fans was astounding, and they always had time for children. My ride with them was one I will never forget, as it included the team's standard maneuvers that all would see that weekend and for years around the world. I was impressed by their professionalism and abilities as we went through the formation loop, hammerhead stall, snap rolls, barrel rolls, and the trademark mirror image. My prayers and best wishes go out to all who were close to the couple, and look forward to seeing them in a better place. Thanks to the French Connection for the fond memories they left me.

En souvenir d'un excellent sejour a OSKOSKH en 98 avec Francois et Cyrille BERNARD, nous avions eu le bonheur de partager leur passion et des moments de grand bonheur.

Nos plus profondes condoleances a leurs familles.

Bernard et Josette DAVAL

We will miss you both Daniel and Montaine.

We will never forget you ..
We will never forget the excitement Montaine brought to every conversation about aerobatics, about safety, about people, and their fans, and about all of life.

In Reply to: Condoleances posted by Bernard et Josette DAVAL on May 28, 2000 at 10:38:57:

: En souvenir d'un excellent sejour a OSKOSKH en 98 avec Francois et Cyrille BERNARD, nous avions eu le bonheur de partager leur passion et des moments de grand bonheur.

: Nos plus profondes condoleances a leurs familles.

: Bernard et Josette DAVAL

I am so very sorry to hear of the loss of these wonderful people. I have seen them perform many times and always look forward to thier wonderful show. I was shocked and saddened to learn of the accident. My heart goes out to all of their friends and family.
I am grateful to have had the privilege of seeing them perform.

We will miss you

Deepest sympothies and condolences. My sons and I have watched their flying for many years. We will miss them.
Barry

In Reply to: We will never forget you.. posted by Harley Carnes on May 28, 2000 at 10:47:56:

: We will never forget you ..
: We will never forget the excitement Montaine brought to every conversation about aerobatics, about safety, about people, and their fans, and about all of life.
We will never forget the quiet intensity of Daniel, his ready smile, and his obvious concern for precision and for safety.
We will never forget that all of us who came within their sphere came to feel that they were our friends.

Like many, many people - my first aerobatic instruction came at their school. Claude was my instructor, and Montaine taught me from time to time. I quoted one of her admonitions regarding spins and spin training to a potential student only yesterday. Here in the Northeast, where Daniel and Montaine opened their school at POU - Duchess County Airport - many, many pilots were touched by them, made better by them, and inspired by them.
I had the honor of helping Larry Rutt announce their airshow at this year's Sun N Fun appearance. At the morning briefings, Montaine sat beside me, offering insights and advice. She and Daniel were among the very, very few performers who placed their airplanes at "plastic corner" where fans could come close afterward for conversation, autograph signing and picture taking.
They lived the aerobatic dream. They lived and breathed it, teaching it - and flying for millions of appreciative fans. They were the greatest examples of what a man and woman could be for each other, in the air and on the ground.
We will never forget our friends, Daniel Heligoin and Montaine Mallet. Go with God.

Deepest sympothies and condolences. My sons and I have watched their flying for many years. We will miss them.
Barry

The performance of The French Connection with its grace and technical skills will be missed saddly missed from airshows but not from our memory. They were a one of a kind perfomance team.

"To laugh often and much; To win the respect of intelligent people and affection of children; To earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; To appreciate beauty, To find the best in others; To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healty child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived.
This......is to have succeeded" - R. Emerson

Montaine and Daniel, As teachers; As performers, and as friends you are remembered-Jim Edsall; Florida Tech Aerobatic Instructor

In Reply to: heartfelt condolences to family and friends of Montaine and Daniel. posted by Barry D.Smith on May 28, 2000 at 11:00:08:

They not only gave to the world their magnificent airshow, but gave so much of themselves to teaching. They were always willing to take time out of their busy schedules to do forums at Sun'n Fun and talk to general aviation pilots about becoming safer pilots with some aerobatic training and stall-spin training. It was important to them to give back to a sport they so loved. They will NEVER be forgotten. We have lost two friends, but they left us with so much.
May the Peace of their memories be with their family and many friends.
Jim and Jean Taylor

Your compassion, generosity, and professionalism is something the industry and fans will miss. You have always made time to talk to the many people that were lucky enough to see you perform. We can all look back to your performances and smile. We will miss you both.
Alan

Thank you for the the memories, encouragement and my first snap roll. Your kindness and friendship will be missed.

In Reply to: heartfelt condolences to family and friends of Montaine and Daniel. posted by Barry D.Smith on May 28, 2000 at 11:00:08:

They not only gave to the world their magnificent airshow, but gave so much of themselves to teaching. They were always willing to take time out of their busy schedules to do forums at Sun'n Fun and talk to general aviation pilots about becoming safer pilots with some aerobatic training and stall-spin training. It was important to them to give back to a sport they so loved. They will NEVER be forgotten. We have lost two friends, but they left us with so much.
May the Peace of their memories be with their family and many friends.
Jim and Jean Taylor

OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO ALL YOUR FRIENDS ANDFAMILY

One of Sussex Airhows Most Enjoyed Spectators Performers, and long time personal friends,
will be missed!

I had the opportunity to meet Montaine and Daniel at Willow Grove in 1998. They were some of the nicest people I've met. My heartfelt condolences go out to the team, their families, and to the entire airshow community. Their demonstration was a one-of-a-kind performance that was definitely a crowd-pleaser in 1998. We will miss you.

Steven Holzinger
http://www.geocities.com/usair1489

Our dear friends Montaine & Daniel, what a privelge it has been to be a part of your life. Our hearts are so heavy and our sorrow so deep. We have spent many years together as friends, our families as well. Flagler Beach will be a very dull place without you both. You would be so pleased with the outpouring of love and the tribulations you are so deserving of. We have spent many special moments together, every birthday and anniversary, your celebration this year at becoming USA citizens! and special moments at your family house in Les Carroz.... Words cannot express our grief or our loss. We are doing the best we can to handle things for you here and we are and will continue to be a part of each others lives through our families. God Bless you Madeline & Jacques, your loss is the worlds loss. You will never be forgotten.
Love, Tony, Carolyn & Christopher Marlow

We will always remember our many years together at airshows and the comraderie we shared. Our deepest sympathies
The Bordeleau Family
Bill & Dar
Michele & David Wurst
Jackie & Harry Hughes
Cherie Bordeleau
Continental Air Show Productions

The aviation world is saddened by the loss of 2 true professionals who
will not be forgotten. Godspeed The French Connection!

BEST OF THE BEST

The news of their death saddens me greatly, but I have some consolation in knowing they are still together, and probably still soaring.

I had not seen the couple in many years, but when I was a child I would see them yearly, and they always had the warmest cuddles and broadest smiles to share with me.

I grew up with the French Connection & Leo Loudenslager as heroes. Thanks to all of them, wherever they may be, for giving me inspiration.

I can't belive I won't hear you on the radio,while flying in the Florida skys anymore. I saw you first at Oshkosh about 1982 and it seem that you are at almost every airshow. I have a picture of you and my kids, it is real special to us. Thanks for taking time to talk to me and my family at air shows. It was a privilage to have known you. The sudden accident was a shock.

Bebe Teichman

When I learned of the loss of Montaine and Daniel
it filled me with great shock and sadness.

They were fine performers but, more importantly,
friends and truly fine people.

Our association when they represented
Northstar Avionics was one that made me proud to have
such a professional and capable team carrying our logo.

My sincere sympathy to all their family and friends.

They will be missed

Charlie Malaquias

I can't belive I won't hear you on the radio,while flying in the Florida skys anymore. I saw you first at Oshkosh about 1982 and it seem that you are at almost every airshow. I have a picture of you and my kids, it is real special to us. Thanks for taking time to talk to me and my family at air shows. It was a privilage to have known you. The sudden accident was a shock.

Bebe Teichman

We will not forget you.

Daniel and Montaine were gential people with warm hearts. They always made you feel welcomed. Montaine and Daniel will be greatly missed.

The Fiorito's
Cincinnati, Ohio

You both always showed the perfect example of perfect partners...your lessons of life and flying will always be charished by two of your dedicated "students".
Always,

Janeen and Dennis Kochan

Having known Danny and Montaine for twenty + years we
can only echo the many feelings of love expressed in
these messages and thank those that have posted them.

Being a part of the airshow "family" has been an honor
for us for many years. During those years we have bereaved the way too many of our friends that have "gone west" way too early in their lives. We miss them all greatly with a deep hole in our hearts.

In searching for some kind of relief in this time of
sorrow I can only picture one thing... Right now,
Montaine and Danny are sitting on a cloud with "Uncle Bobby", Leo, Charlie, Sonny & Randy and the many friends that have gone before them, including Uncle Dodgie. They are all having a cold Bud-lite and are watching us all, ready to lend a hand lest we get too
close to the edge. We miss you our friends...

I AM OF COURSE SHOCKED AT JUST HEARING OF THE LOSS OF THESE ULTRA TALENTED PERFORMERS. AS A VIDEOGRAPHER I HAD SEVERAL INTERVIEWS WITH THEM SINCE 1989 AND SO MUCH FOOTAGE OF THEIR UNIQUE CANOPY TO CANOPY ROUTINE. THEY WERE SO WARM AND ALWAYS MADE YOU FEEL COMFORTABLE
WHEN INTERVIEWING THEM. WE ALL SAW THE LOVE AFFAIR, AND THE ULTRA TRUST IN THEIR ROUTINE, THEY WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. TRULY STARS OF THE AIRSHOW WHEREVER THEY PERFORMED.
JUDSON

With a heavy heart and deep sympathy to family and friends I fondly remember my friendship with Daniel and Montaine. Through several airshows at Cecil Field, to working together during their annual trips to Sun 'n Fun, those late night sessions at ICAS and my all too infrequent trips to visit them at Flagler, they will be missed.

The air show industry and aviation in general has lost two great professionals.

I AM OF COURSE SHOCKED AT JUST HEARING OF THE LOSS OF THESE ULTRA TALENTED PERFORMERS. AS A VIDEOGRAPHER I HAD SEVERAL INTERVIEWS WITH THEM SINCE 1989 AND SO MUCH FOOTAGE OF THEIR UNIQUE CANOPY TO CANOPY ROUTINE. THEY WERE SO WARM AND ALWAYS MADE YOU FEEL COMFORTABLE
WHEN INTERVIEWING THEM. WE ALL SAW THE LOVE AFFAIR, AND THE ULTRA TRUST IN THEIR ROUTINE, THEY WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. TRULY STARS OF THE AIRSHOW WHEREVER THEY PERFORMED.
JUDSON

My name is Moni K, at Washington DC, originally from Winnipeg, Canada. I am an air show fan and loved watching aerobatics, especially these two people we lost so suddenly. With deep regrets, I offer my condolences to Daniel and Montaine's loved ones and their beloved friends and the aviaton community. We miss the finest, talented aviators who left us, when they died doing what they love. May Lord Bless them.
Moni

My family KRISTIE, RICHARD & KAYCIE ,& CLEAR PROP INC SEND HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES & SYMPATHY

It was always a joy and a privilege to see these two superbly talented people display their mastery of the air in the machines they knew as well as themselves. It was no less special to know them as the nice, unassuming people they always were at Sky Acres Airport back in the 70s. Nous disons seulement au Montaine et Daniel, pas "Goodby", mais "Au revoir."

How can one begin to say thank you for all you’ve given us - your sincere friendship and guidance, laughter and love of flight, your professionalism and skill, what a perfect balance. What wonderful people, mentors and true friends. You two were wonderful examples of just how to live ones’ life to the fullest. Thank you for touching my life, for providing so many precious memories and for being my friends. You will never be forgotten, rather always remembered fondly – until we meet again.

We have known them since they first came to the states.
They flew the closest formation of all formation pilots.
To bad we took for granted. We will miss you very much.

Montaine and Daniel, we will miss you.

With Love
John and Leslie Lillberg

Two nice people. Great Performers. "Hello Daniel." As I would see him rushing in to buy his groceries. To ordinary people, he was just another shopper, un-assuming in everyway. A joy to talk to, both he and Montaine. Flagler Airport will not be the same without them. The World of Aviation weeps for them, and their family.

Summoned Home To Serve The Lord..May 27th, 2000

Montaine and Daniel, we will miss you.

With Love
John and Leslie Lillberg

The most impressive thing I have ever seen in aviation was The French Connection formation snap roll. They did it less than 10 feet apart. They never changed heading, just a true snap in TIGHT formation. I could never be more impressed with someone's flying skills. We have lost the 2 best formation pilots ever.
They will be missed.
Mike Skaggs

After losing a very dear friend of mine in a mid-air
collision just only last December in Deland, FL., I can
sypmathize with the deep sense of loss and unbelievable
emptiness that this tragedy brings to their family,
their friends and the aviation world. I have seen
them perform and I watched them intently with great
admiration and in complete awe their spectacular flying
abilities. I never knew Montaine Mallet and Daniel
Heligoin personally, but my heart aches as if I had.
I send my sincerest and deepest condolences and
sympathy to their loved ones and friends. They died
together, doing what they loved most in this world.
For that, we can be grateful. It would have been
more tragic for them if one had been left behind. They
now have exchanged their earthly silver wings made of
metal for their heavenly wings of gold that will keep
them safe and in Gods loving arms forever.

In Reply to: Montaine and Daniel posted by Jerry & Trudy Burdick on May 28, 2000 at 13:46:16:

: The voids in the skies of future airshows will be felt world wide but your love of flying for our enjoyment will be in our hearts
forever.God speed

I taught for them for two years, from Sept '91 until October '93...

My wife and I were married on the ramp at Mudry exactly seven years ago:27 May 1993. We honeymooned at the Keystone contest that weekend.

It was not always easy, but that was because they cared so deeply. I learned so much, I was truly blessed to be so fortunate. They gave so much, making sure the school continued long after their Airshow business was more than succesful enough. They didn't have to-but they believed in giving back to the community they loved so much.

We can never fully realise their impact on our community-Daniel had been training pilots for well over 40 years, including his Air Force years. Montaine's whole adult life was spent caring for Daniel,the business, the Instructors, the Students, and anyone else who came into range. How many lives have they inspired, through their mind-boggling performances, through their students and instructors, who in turn pass on the teaching of the masters to countless generations to follow.

Claude Chanclu, the instructor who worked for them for SEVEN years before me, once told me something during one of our last flights before he left. He said that I was not in for an easy time, as they could be very demanding at times, but If I hung in there I would learn and experience more than I could ever hope to anywhere else.

He couldn't have been more right...

God bless and keep them, his gain is definitely our loss.

Mike

So sorry to have read the IAC post of the fatal crash.
They proejcted a true professional image to our sport. Their performances as a team was extraordinary.
Their contribution to the sport of aerobatics will be
not be forgotten.
My sympathy to those at Mudry Aviation, family and friends.
Linda Hamer
IAC President Emeritus

Daniel and Montaine, thank you so much for the lessons. I have studied many subjects, so consider myself a good judge of teachers. The best ones do not flaunt their expertise, communicate their joy in what they do, and -- this applied to me -- never let their less talented students feel inadequate or unappreciated.

It's been more than ten years since we flew together. I remember it as if it were yesterday, and always will.

-Joseph Renfield

I am stricken with sadness over this loss of two aerobatic flyers of great skill. We do a dangerous thing but we do it with a joy that those multitudes of earth-bound mortals never will know. To die doing what we love is sad but not so sad as to die never having done it. For these two pilots of consumate skill to die doing what they loved is somehow fitting, but it should be a dire warning to those of us with lesser skills. We best honor them by remembering their lives and the joy they brought to many others, but we can also honor them by being careful out there.

Daniel et Montaine,

Vous étiez mes amis et vous le serez toujours dans mon coeur ; votre joie de vivre était présente dans tous les moments.
Je suis si triste à la pensée de ne plus vous voir ni vous entendre.
Sincères condoléances à la famille.
Love, Françoise.

Let us not take for granted those good things bestowed
upon us, the fledglings of earthly life that we are.
They helped me earn my wings at an age much later in
life than I had wished, a life-long, childhood dream,
a chapter of my life...

..."for we remain weak under the wings of their eternal
strength for which the earthern bound clouds have parted to allow their eternal passage...God speed!"

In sympathy, Flagler County Commissioner Jim Darby.

My sincerest condolences to the family, our worldwide aviation community and to the loved ones of Montaine Mallet and Daniel Heligoin.

Trudi, Richard, Kristie, Kacie, CLEAR PROP send heartfelt odolences and sympathy

Their niche is among us...Flagler County Airport, USA,
Home of the French Connection, Montaine Mallet and
Daniel Heligoin.

May humanity find mutual love and admiration among the
French and American nations, and all the world, in
memory of their passing...they touched the world of us
all in so many different ways.

Jim Darby, Chairman, Flagler County Board of County
Commissioners, Florida, USA.

Aerial ballets in the sky, red, white, blue trails
streaking by;

Anthem music fills the air,

Such a sight to see them there, flying high in the sky.

Daniel and Montaine, you will be missed.

Condolences to the family.

I cry as I write this.I remember the first time I met them,and have loved their way ever since.True airshow people.The flying/airshow world suffers over this tragic loss.

Montaine and Daniel, you will be sorely missed by a brokenhearted friend. Priscilla

i've seen the french connection in shows and all i can say is "poetry in motion".their death saddens us all.

Comme deux oiseaux magnifiques
Ils ont volé ensemble toute leurs vies
avec un merveilleux élan
et un amour des cieux divins
et ensemble leurs corps sont tombés
mais certainement leurs âmes volent encore
là haut pour toute l'éternité
nous l'espérons de tout nos coeurs...
BON VOYAGE !
Tous les membres du Cercle Français de Pqlm Coast

Sympathy to you all dear American friends ,who shared their life, their job, their passion in this great country of aircratf.Montaine and Daniel flew over the States in all directions and they really loved this country which was theirs by now.We don't know you but whoever or whereever you are you will miss them as we will do

Auguste,Michel,Helene,Martine,Gylda Mudry

A sad good-bye today to an extraordinary couple who inspired us and challenged us with their grace and skill. Our sympathies to Montaine and Daniel's family and friends. From Lauren Lee and T. J. Lilliman, another flying couple, the Canadian Bushhawks Liaison Squadron. We were privileged to work with Montaine and Daniel, and will always treasure the memory of the moments we shared.

You taught me so much. You will be missed. We have lost so much. From now on it will always be CAVU!

Sympathy to you all dear American friends who shared their life, their job, their passion in this great country of aircraft. Montaine and Daniel flew over the States in all directions and they really loved this country which was theirs by now. We don't know you but whoever or whereever you are you will miss them as we will do.

Auguste,Michel,Helene,Martine,Gylda Mudryl

Though I did not know them well or long, Montaine and Daniel provided me the opportunity to experience the thrill of aerobatics. Montaine was a very serious and dedicated pilot who thrived on flying. I had tried to schedule lessons this weekend to further my aerobatic experience and show Montaine I wasn't always going to be a 'dead-footed Cessna pilot'. When I dip a wing on takeoff, it will be in memory of Montaine and Daniel.

sheer artistry, grace, showmanship, dedication.. Watching the fuid motion of true aerobatics as they made music together. We shall all miss them, but remembrance is sweet..

I was lucky enough to meet Montaine and Daniel at Oshkosh. They were the two nicest people anyone would want to meet. They were warm and friendly and easy to talk to. Aviation has lost two GREAT friends.

I WILL MISS MY GOOD FRIENDS. THE LOSS WILL BE GREAT TO THE AIRSHOW INDUSTRY.... AND TO ALL THEIR FRIENDS. NO WORDS CAN SHOW THE PAIN.

Great lasting memories.

We are shocked and saddened at the loss of Daniel and Montaine. They flew at our airshow last month and we had the pleasure of meeting them. They are no doubt two of the nicest people one could meet. Aviation has suffered a great loss. The legacy they have achieved will live on within all of us.

With Sincerest Sympathy,
Athens-Ben Epps Airport
Athens Georgia

Sur notre tout nouveau site internet,un de nos "liens"
était pour eux.Aujourd'hui,plus que jamais ce mot
prend tout son sens.
Ici au club on a pas oublié les premiers vols de Montaine
avec F.Dabin,sur jodel 112 en septembre 67.

A leurs familles,à leurs amis,nous exprimons toute
notre sympathie.

Le président,
les membres de l'aéro-club-d'Aubigny

In Reply to: I remember Daniel and Montaine posted by Spencer Robbins on May 28, 2000 at 09:20:34:

: I'm twelve years old and am devastated.
: I'd always known them and they were like family to me.
: They always treated me with love and kindness that
: I will never forget.I miss them so much. I pray for
: everyone that knew them to help us in this time of need
.
Spencer, when my Uncle Dodgie's plane crashed without giving him any chance to use his phenominal skills as one of the most experienced pilots in the country, I didn't think anything could break through my anger and grief at what seemed like such a needless loss and personal devestation. This letter written by the Cannon of St. Paul's Cathdral when he lost his best friend was the only thing that cut through my pain. I hope it helps you half as much as it did me.

To my beloved family and friends~
Death is nothing at all---I've only slipped away into the next room. I am I, and you are you. Whatever we were to each other, that we are still. Call me by my old familiar name. Speak to me in the easy way which you always used. Put no difference into your tone. Wear no false air of solemnity or sorrow. Laugh--as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed together. Play---Smile---Think of me---Pray for me. Let my name be ever the household word that it always was. Let it be spoken without effect--without a ghost of a shadow on it. Life means all that it ever was--it is the same as ever. There is unbroken continuity. Why should I be out of mind because I'm out of sight? I am but waiting for you for an interval--somewhere very near--just around the corner...
...All is well.
~~H. S. Holland
Cannon, St. Paul's Cathedral

To Montaine and Daniel,

I am sad to hear the news... the final flight of the French Connection. I remember in June 1973 at Downingtown, Pennsylvania... it was the first public performance of their dual-formation act. A Thousand exhibitions later, and each was a true Ballet-In-The-Sky. Montaine & Daniel will be missed very much.

Sonny Everett

To Montaine and Daniel,

Your technical expertise was awsome. That you elevated flying beyond that, however, such that it became a truly artistic expression of beauty, grace and loving intimacy was truly touching and inspirational.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

we will miss you you will always be in our hearts
you were a big connection in so many lives
love allyson

We would like to extent our deepest sympathy to the friends and family of these two kind and wonderful people. We had the privilege of meeting them on May 6 and 7th at Flagler County Airport during a contest we were having.We had to shut down our contest for about an hour to vacate the area for their practice but, this bacame the highlight of our contest.Everyone watched as they performed the stunt which cost them their lives,but they had perform it so well in unisom that we could believe they could do it with their eyes closed,that is how much they performed together.

In Reply to: Fondly remembered posted by Aero Mechanical LTD. Jim Pam on May 28, 2000 at 18:15:36:

: Daniel & Montaine;

: Thank you for all the years of friendship and spectacular air show performances. You will both be missed each and every day. May the memory of your lives
: stay with us forever.

Aviation Greats forever in our memories.

Aviation Greats forever in our memories.

good bye my friends,you are together in heaven now,i will allways remember our times together !!!you would be so proud if you could read right here how many lifes you have touched !!your crying german chef michael--8 years at wings airport restaurant,also condolences from my staff ,some of whom you only met a few times--you touched their hearts by beeing nice,funny and pleasent people,raoul,lisa,angie,heiko,al,john,christo,ilse,we all miss you--GOOD BYE MY DEAR FRIENDS

Many fond memories at Dutchess Co Airport, Sky Acres,
the many Airshows, the DCPA Christmas Party. We will
miss you very much. God Speed!
Mitzi and Bob Proctor

We will miss you

Thanks to Montaine and Daniel, I will confidently approach the military with a unsurpassed knowledge of aerobatics.
Montaine always stressed safety and even though I would
get yelled at for doing stupid things, the intentions
were good and insured that I would never put myself in an unforgivig
situation. Daniel was so sweet and funny. It is at
their flight school I met my best friend and many other
great friends. I don't know where I will ever go to
learn what I learned from them. I doubt any other flight
school could match their level of expertise. As Vice President of the Sport
Aviation Club, we will miss these two diamonds in the rough.
It will be hard to convince my parents to let me learn aerobatics
from anyone else. Trust is hard to come by, but I would
count on Montaine and Daniel any day.
Love,
Christina Marie Thompson

You will be missed greatly. Your donations to the contest have always been greatly appreciated.

You are in my dreams forever--from the first time I saw you in Flagler Beach to now.

we will miss you both Montaine and daniel you were such good friends. thanks for all you did for us at airmax. you will never be forgotten. with fondest memories. jack selig, jack and vicki hemmings. and all of us here at airmax. god bless you both

Montaine et Daniel......

You were my shade, my inspiration. Your dance was my music. You helped build my Emeraude. As I fly, I shall think of you.

Fly now, in the presence of the almighty.

Richard

In Reply to: Clouds have parted for their passage posted by Commissioner Jim Darby (Personal) on May 28, 2000 at 14:37:16:

: Let us not take for granted those good things bestowed
: upon us, the fledglings of earthly life that we are.
: They helped me earn my wings at an age much later in
: life than I had wished, a life-long, childhood dream,
: a chapter of my life...

: ..."for we remain weak under the wings of their eternal
: strength for which the earthern bound clouds have parted to allow their eternal passage...God speed!"

: In sympathy, Flagler County Commissioner Jim Darby.

: My sincerest condolences to the family, our worldwide aviation community and to the loved ones of Montaine Mallet and Daniel Heligoin.

In sympathy, EJK & ELK---

You are an insiration to me and to many others, thank you for being positve roll models and great people. You will always remain in my heart.

God Speed....Thanks for the Joy you gave to all of us.

EJK***Getting my Wings

YOU ARE THE BEST

Seldom is the missing man formation so significant.

Never too busy to help anyone. Gone flying. Be back soon

I saw you two for the first time this year at SUN-N-FUN, and from your inspiring show I am now taking flying lessons.

Thanks, and may God be with you two.

Many times I watched your shows and had the privledge of meeting you both. You flew with such style and grace. You will never be replaced and you will never be forgotten.

You brought the love of aviation to all of us, watching how the both of you gracefully tamed your birds, and flying together as one. You will never be forgotten.

As a former student and forever a friend,
I will miss you both so very, very, very much.

High Flight

Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of earth
And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings;
Sunward I've climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth
Of sun-split clouds - and done a hundred things
You have not dreamed of - wheeled and soared and swung
High in the sunlit silence. Hov'ring there
I've chased the shouting wind along, and flung
My eager craft through footless halls of air.

Up, up the long delirious, burning blue,
I've topped the windswept heights with easy grace
Where never lark, or even eagle flew -
And, while with silent lifting mind I've trod
The high unsurpassed sanctity of space,
Put out my hand and touched the face of God.

Pilot Officer Gillespie Magee
No 412 squadron, RCAF
Killed 11 December 1941

God Bless you Montaine and Daniel.

We met Daniel and Montaine one weekend when we visited the "French Connection" for an aviation safety program. They were friendly, warm, and charming ... they could not have been more gracious or made us feel more welcome.

Our sincere condolences to their friends and family.

David and Fraulein Jaffe
Vero Beach, Florida

Unlike many others, I met Daniel and Montaine only four short years ago when I became the air show director at Oceana. However, their reputation preceded them and I quickly learned why. Their act was one of grace. Their personalities were ones of joy. Their legacy will be both and more. They were honest with their critiques and helped all of us learn to be not only better organizers, but better people. You leave many friends behind and many at Oceana will be remembering you. Deb Mitchell and the Oceana Staff

Daniel and Montaine, it was a privlige of seeing you in Schenectady, New York. God Bless You and fly with the angels.

In Reply to: Daniel & Montaine our great colleagues posted by CASP Bill Bordeleau Family on May 28, 2000 at 11:49:43:

I echo the Bordeleau's condolences. Having worked with them several times I knew their love for each other, flight, and aerial entertainment. I miss them.

Rob Reider
Air Show Announcer
Continental Air Show Productions

I saw then perform just a couple of months ago in Augusta, two souls sharing the passion of flight together. They were simply the best, they gave all to give the true gift of flight to thousands. Rest in peace while dancing with each other in the clouds, God Bless.

Having just heard of their passing, I like so many others will truly miss them and their arial grace. God Bless Them

I started out with you because I was afraid of what you did. I was scared of that whole unknown element of flying. It is wonderful that you were able to share your gift with so many others, always with deepest concern and sincerity. I strive to be like you and impart the standards that you demanded on to my students. You turned that fear into a blessing and forever changed my life and all those with whom I share that love of aerobatics. You will be missed but never ever forgotten.

Thank you for all that you've given.

Josh and Camille Wilson

We've been watching the French Connection for many years. Our 18 month old daughter was mesmerized by their act at Sun-N-Fun this past year. Such fine people and performers can never be replaced. Our thoughts and prayers are with the friends and family of Montaine and Daniel.

In Reply to: WITH SADNESS posted by DAVE CIRONI on May 28, 2000 at 22:31:51:

: Having just heard of their passing, I like so many others will truly miss them and their aerial grace. God Bless Them.

plz forgive my spelling..

Goodbye old friends. You may leave, but you can't take the memories and the laughs. They're mine and they'll stay close to heart.

Daniel and Montaine are an inspiration to my husband and me. They are--because they will forever be--even though they are no longer with us here. They will continue to inspire those who have been touched by their poetry in the sky. Thier love for flying, each other and all of us lives in our hearts and memories. We spoke with Mom and Dad, Bob and Annette Hosking, today; as Annette says their passing is a great loss to the airshow family. Our sympathy extends to all of you.

Lost two special people, Heaven gains two angels.

I never tired of watching you fly. Your routine always uplifted and inspired me. The music you chose to fly to and the poetry Montaine quoted were always moving.

But more than anything I treasure the memories of flying as a student with Montaine!!

Their skills and showmanship made them famous..
So did their friendliness and joie de vivre..
Such a sad time. They will be missed.

Friends from their very early days in the USA.
Andre & Liliane Lonchambon

I started flying aerobatics with Daniel & Montaine in
fall of 1975 after my friend Vicki Winchell mentioned
that a French couple were teaching Aerobatics at
Sky Acres Airport in Millbrook NY. I was in the process
of getting my private pilot's license and wanted to learn
areobatics to make me a better pilot. Their patience and
perseverance allowed me fly with confidence. We became
good friends and had great times together and I will miss them
dearly. Goodbye old friends.
Sincerly,
Jeff Roman

For being my inspiration, you will always be in my heart. Angel wings in Heaven. Thanks Daniel and Montaine, my heroes, you will always be remembered.

I shall never forget the beauty of their performance and the friendship they extended to me as one of their
fans - they will be greatly missed!

The loss is huge to all of us who love flying and enjoyed their talents and gentle spirit.

I was sad to here of their tragady today. Sympathy to all family& friends. I know your pain i lost my brother in an aircraft accident 2 yrs. ago in Pa.

I have been to many airshows and usually prefer military displays to "civilian" demonstrations. Seeing the French Connection changed that for me. The grace and beauty of their flying dance coupled with sensitive poetry and personal passion was very different and intriguing. The fact that this "team" was a personal as well as a professional one made their performances even more amazing to me...the trust, togetherness, and beauty of their show was unique and I am grateful to have witnessed it. Bless you.

Dave Gorman

We wish to express our sympthany on behalf of thousands of Australians who travel to Oshkosh on the Oshkosh Express whom they have given so much pleasure too in watching their performances and talking to them on and off the field.
May they teach the angels to fly.
God Bless.
Sincerly,
Bob & Marya Phillips and Dave Thomas
Co-0ordinators of the Oshhkosh Express.

DANIEL AND MONTAINE,

YOU WERE ALWAYS WILLING TO HELP, AND SHARE YOUR WISDOM.

YOU WILL BE MISSED.

MARSHALL

I will cherish the fond memories that you have left me and my family.We have only met once,having a quick lunch at Allaire(Monmouth)airport in NJ before you moved on to another show. I was only 14 years old,yet you spoke to me as if I was your best friend.Flying was your love and what you did best. My brother had the opertunity to actuly fly with you (Daniel) while you were up at Sussex He alwyas said "If you are going to learn aerobatics go see Daniel and Montaine,They will teach you, They are the best of the best! I was planning on that this winter, but you left us before I had the chance. May God bless you and your family! May you have Blue Skies wherever you may be! Thank you for educating us in the finer aspects flying and the art of being a team! We always looked forward to your performance at Sussex. God speed!

The Sibi Family!

They are our Friends Forever as Montaine & Daniel "Fly West"...Thoughts of them will always be of the good times, the fun times and the pleasures they have brought to us and so many, many others. Their friendship will always be remembered.

I was shocked at the news tonight regarding
Montaine and Daniel's death. Few people enjoy
what they do for a living. Some of us fly when
we get the chance and our check book agrees.
They use to play a poem writtem by a young girl
up at Sussex who died in a mid air. I hope someone
reads that poem in honor of them and the girl with
the love of flight. To have lived and not have
flown would not have been to be alive.

Oh, I have slipped the surly bonds of earth

And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings;

Sunward I've climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth

Of sun-split clouds--and done a hundred things

You have not dreamed of--wheeled and soared and swung

High in the sunlit silence, Hov'ring there,

I've chased the shouting wind along, and flung

My eager craft through footless halls of air.

Up, up the long, delirious, burning blue

I've topped the windswept heights with easy grace

Where never lark, or even eagle flew

And, while with silent, lifting mind I've trod

The high untrespassed sanctity of space,

Put out my hand, and touched the face of God

By Pilot Officer JOHN GILLISPIE MAGEE, JR. No 412 Squadron, RCAF (1922-1941)

High Flight, a poem by John Gillespie Magee, Jr. An American/British fighter pilot. He flew with the Royal
Canadian Air Force in World War II. He came to Britain, flew in a Spitfire squadron, and was killed at age 19 on
December 11, 1941, during a training flight from the airfield near Scopwick, Lincolnshire. The poem was written on
the back of a letter to his parents which stated, "I am enclosing a verse I wrote the other day. It started at 30,000
feet, and was finished soon after I landed."

There are no words to express the loss of such great skill and even greater friendship. Our hearts ache, but our wonderful memories of your incomparable performances will be with us always.
And for you Danielle, there will always be "Frankie's by Night"!
Au revoir, Patrick & Nancy Ford

With a smile on their face
and love in their heart
they made music in the sky
with their flying of grace.
They performed ballet on the
stage of blue skies and air.
For now their audience they
perform for is one greater
than all.

Our hearts are filled with the deepest of sorrow. Montaine with her gracious smile and Daniel with his double cheeked kisses, the little things they brought to us daily. NO words can express how much they will be missed by all. "Fly and be free." With love in our now pained hearts, Jaclyn, Thomas & Chase McCort

MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO THE FAMILIES.THEY ARE WITH THEIR
AVIATION FRIENDS WHOM HAVE GONE ON BEFORE THEM.YOU WILL
BE MISSED BUT NOT FORGOTTEN.

The talent, experience,showmanship and humanity lost are only exceeded by the memories that will forever remain.

I've probably seen their performances over 100 times, pumped a whole lot of smoke oil for them, and shot many, many rolls of film on them. I never stopped being amazed by their precision, awed by Daniel's snap-roll on take-off, or welled up in tears at Montaine's reading of that poem (whose title escapes me) during their show. Not to mention the rolling 360, the canopy-to-canopy, the classic music that fit so well, or the wing-tip smoke that made such a pretty picture.
They left us doing what they loved, and are together for all eternity now, but I'm selfish, I want to see them again, and I'm tired of missing man formations at airshows hitting home like the next one I see will. Godspeed, and bless you both for choosing to entertain and thrill us for so many years... R.I.P.

They filled my head with dreams of flight, so gracefull and serene, an air ballet that made me yearn to live my life again, and be one like them. I can close my eyes and see them as I did so many times, soaring through the air as one, demonstrating the ultimate trust and the love for each other......God must be planning an airshow........ Godspeed !!!

I've no word strong enough to explain my sadness.
Today my heart is turned to MONTAINE and DANIEL and also to their parents, family and friends.
MONTAINE and DANIEL will be in my head and in my heart for the rest of my life.
They were my heros and I'll never forget them.
So long.

SAW THESE AMAZING AIRCRAFT IN THE SKY. TRACKED THEM DOWN AT SKY ACRES AIRPORT IN NEARBY BILLINGS NEW YORK.
THEY WERE KIND ENOUGH TO LET ME ATTEMP A PHOTO ESSAY ON THEIR DAILY ACTIVITIES. DEDICATED, HARD WORKING AND KIND. DAYS STARTED EARLY, EVERY MOMMENT WAS PART OF THEIR EFFORT TO FULFILL THEIR LOVE OF AEROBATIC FLIGHT. IT WAS A THRILL TO PHOTOGRAPH THEM EACH FROM THE PASSENGER SEAT DURING PRACTICE. THEIR INTEREST WAS TO SHARE THEIR DREAM OF AVIATION TO HELP ME WITH MY DREAM OF PHOTO-ESSAY...THEY WERE SO UNSELFISH AND DEAR HEARTED. ANYONE WHO WAS FORTUNATE TO KNOW THEM PERSONALLY WILL HAVE A CHERISHED MEMORY.
DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO MICHEL MUDRY AND FAMILY, THE CAP-10 COMPANY AND ALL WHO LOVED THEM.

Though I had never met either of you, my life has been enriched by you. I have seen your show several times, and twice had the incredible pleasure of aerobatic flight lessons in the CAP10 with your flight school. Both your shows and your flight lessons are experiences that not only thrilled me, but also set free my spirit. Now that your own spirits are set free forever, know that you have touched the lives of so many. God's blessing to you on your final flight over that last horizon. You will be missed.
Tom Dalzell - Private Pilot, Raleigh, NC - USA

With sadness I regret your loss. In the 70s I flew with you at Sky Acres NY. Your love of life and joy of flying was unforgetable. We had laughs too, a forgotten key, a garlic breakfast. Now you will fly in Sky Acres again. With sadnes, Regina Leibowitz

I had the honor of meeting both of them several years ago, and they will surely be missed. They are flying on the wings of angels now.

We were friends up in New York and when I moved to Florida they soon followed.
The aviation community will miss them.

They were very giving to new acro pilots. They gave their time and their knowledge. I had my first contest at Flagler, and Montaine asked if I had anyone to critique me. I said ``no'' so she did. Another time when my optoins for getting a low level card was running out, she and Daniel waited for me to come down from Athens and watched me fly my first Airshow routine, even though it was the saturday before Easter. They leave a void that can't be filled.

Many memories of flying and fun since meeting any learning
from both of you in 1974 at 44N. What more to be said..
and a special thank you to you Montaine for that decision
over Millbrook in 1974.

thanks for all
Harold

The Toronto Airshow crowd and performers will miss you two... The best pair in the world...
May you rest in peace.

Cs.

Husband/Wife teams are very special to us. We have years of good memories on and off the flightline with them. Our sincere sympathy to the family.

It was an honor to know Daniel and Montaine and to share their friendship. Their talent was inspirational. Our sincere sympathies to the family.

Goodbye to great pilots and good friends, I will miss
you every time I walk into a breifing

Rick and Suzanne

Daniel , Montaine ,
Thank you for all .
You was the inspiration to create our "Tche-Connection
team".
More than one hundred pilots that learn aerobatics here in Porto Alegre , Brazil , will remenber you each time they buckle up in our two Cap 10's cockpits.
We are proud to have been among your huge friend's family.

Thanks for all the memories

We will always hold Daniel and Montaine in our hearts and minds as two of not only the best in aviation, but also the best in friends.

I always had fun phoning Montaine & Daniel, because
I did in French and somehow they both knew it was me,
Lise from the Montreal Intl Air Show in St-Hubert at
the time. When I learned of your passing, I was stunned
and still cannot believe you are both gone, but I still
feel your presence, for you are together forever flying
in harmony in our skies! And all of us will remember you
in our deepest memories. Thank you for all the fun,
laughter and professionnalism thru the years I had the
privilege to work with you both, I WILL MISS YOU!!!

I have been a frequenter of airshows for all of my 18 years, and one of the memories that sticks with me after every airshow is the French Connection wheeling through the sky as if bolted together while Montaine reads the poem High Flight. I shall never forget them.

Our deepest sympathies

Back in the 70's Daniel & Montaine came to North Central Airport in Rhode Island to demonstrate the CAP 10. It still had the French registratioin letters. Daniel "baby sat" my 4 year old son while I was fortunate to get about 45 minutes of flight time with Montaine in the CAP 10. Since then we have always tried to fly into an airshow where you would be demonstrating your precision & talent. Thanks for years of memories. You now have made your last flight, but will fly with all of us always.

In Reply to: Daniel et montaine posted by adam shaw on May 28, 2000 at 08:38:40:

: Montaine:
: Daniel:

F-GFNFE CAP 10 s/n 22 took off today from LFLP (Annecy) at 11:30 LT and flew to Carreau d'Arrache where you loved to ski. Half toll to inverted and a half roll back. For you.

: You weremy boss, my family, my connection to things I love most. Flying upside down and Marianne , my wife.

: Godspeed.

: Adam

Adam, Please get in touch.

You were great pilots...even better friends. We will miss you and will keep you alive in our many memories of you. Say Hello to Leo and our other friends.
Karen

Fot many years I have watched yur performances and every one was a treat and truly a pleasure to watch. Godspeed Montaine and Daniel you were the best.

We will always remember you two, together - thoughtful, caring and above all else, the best of friends!

Never forgotten.

Mark, Karin and Stephanie Reichin – Poughkeepsie, NY and Boston, MA

Thanks for the memories. We all want to say good bye and let you know that you will never be forgotten. Not only did we enjoy your flying; we enjoyed you as wonderful human beings. You are now committed into God's hand. See you on the other side.

I, nor many thousands of others will never forget the "French Connection", I'm honored to have watched their aerial ballet, and I mourn their loss.

THANK YOU FOR ALL THE WONDER TIMES

I saw Daniel and Montaine perform for the first time just last month at the Athens, GA airshow. I was thinking about leaving early until a friend of mine encouraged me to stick around to watch them. I am forever grateful that I did. Their routine was graceful as it was impeccably performed.

My wife also took my children to Flagler to meet the team. I as a CFII have not been able to interest my children in flying, but it took Montaine all of about 5 minutes to convince my 9 year old that she would become a pilot. I will always remember the time Montaine took and the compassion she showed my daughter as she walked her through their hanger, showing her their airplanes. Thank you both for the inspiration you have been to everyone of us! You will be missed.

For many years we were thrilled with The French Connections aerial ballet. You will be sadly missed at air shows in Central and Southwestern Ohio. No other acrobatic team could quite duplicate the graceful routine performed by this husband and wife team.

My condolences to the family of these fine performers.

Bill Walton, Columbus, Ohio

Mouth agape, I watched your aerial pas de deux so many times. Remembering, I can still feel the thrill.

We will always remember you as "our guys" at Poughkeepsie.

Gary Gladstone

I can't remember an airshow without Daniel & Montaine. They were great performers, but most of all, they were friends. My son, grandchildren and I will miss you. RSP my friends and thank you for years of enjoyment.

I met both of you in Addison, Texas, the final airshow to be staged at the Addison Airport. I was so excited to meet the two of you. Both of you must have thought I was just some airplane nut from the locals. But I marvelled at your expertise and your skills. I was drawn to the Airplanes, The CAP history and the beauty of the planes themselves. I was a 1/4 RC'r and built a Yellow Aircraft CAP10B in honor of the two of you. Flew it many times at the IMAA meets, and touted the CAP's abilities and your own experties. I can not believe that both of you are gone. Montaine and Daniel you two people touched my life for a brief moment. A memory that I will cherrish forever. I am deeply saddened and my heart pours out to your families. I hope that the moments such as mine, where your presence was a thrill and an emotional high will live on in your memory. Good Bye my friends, I will be always thinking of you and remembering the beautifull encounter one bright sunny day in Texas.
Deepest Sympathies

Johnny Snead
Chapter 21 IMAA
Internation Miniature Aircraft Assc.
Irving R/C Flyers Assc.

At times like these there are no words, no making sense, just heavy hearts. I feel so blessed as we all should that God allowed you in our lives and we will forever be affected by you. You took me under your wings when I was just a little girl and now I hope that I will continue to fly with the love that you have shown me forever in my heart. I went flying today and what a feeling it was to know that I have two beautiful angels watching over me as I took to the sky. It was my time to let you hold my broken heart for just awhile. You both will fly forever in all of our hearts. J'taime.

While I have never met either of you, I feel like I have. I have followed your airshow activities for some years with amazement of what the two of you could do. As a fellow pilot, the news of your loss has struck a personal cord. May God bless and hold the two of you.

You were unique, as a couple, and as individuals and brought light to every room you entered. You were always much loved by everyone who met you, because you always gave so much of yourselves in every moment. The world shall remember you as alive and full of life. You were always one - connected - and we loved you.

I was shocked to hear the tragic news Saturday evening from my Mom who lives in Port Orange, FL. I had the pleasure and privilege of meeting Daniel and Montaine a couple of years ago. I also had the distinct joy of taking some instruction with Montaine in the CAP10. Montaine was a master artist in the sky. Flying with her was an incredibly fun experience. I will always count that as some of my most memorable flying.

My sympathies to Montaine and Daniel's friends and family. I know they will be greatly missed.

Profondément bouleversé par l'accident de Montaine et Daniel, je ne peux que vous dire à quel point cette nouvelle qui m'est parvenue hier est atroce !
Je pense que le monde aéronautique va subir de ce fait une grande perte et que tous mes amis de la voltige vont partager avec moi ce deuil qui nous frappe. Bien amicalement dans la joie comme dans la douleur, c'est par la pensèe que je dis aurevoir à mes deux plus chers amis.
Marcel Charollais

I am very sad to hear of the loss of Montaine and Daniel, and express my symapathies to all who were friends and family. Having seen them perform many times, and spoken to them at length, they were true aerial artists,fantastic pilots, and wonderful people.

Al Parry

You always made airshows more exciting. Thank you!!

The loss of Montaine and Daniel is another hard to believe event. The contribution of the French Connection can never be replaced. Both Linda and I consider ourselves fortunate to have been among their many friends. Montaine and Daniel we will miss you.

Montaine and I spent together our time in the 2 engineering schools.
Mes amis de promotion et moi avions toujours une pensée pour elle lors de nos diners de
promotion.
Pour nous, elle était toujours en l'air.
Pour nous, elle sera toujours dans le ciel!

Quant à Daniel, il fut le moniteur de voltige de mon défunt mari!
La boucle est ainsi bouclée!

C'est le ciel qu'ils aimaient.
Myriam

We will miss your leadership qualities and we will always cherish those great memories of flying together !!!!

as fans who enjoyed the french connection at oshkosh every year, we will forever remember their spectacular performances. so lucky they were to go at the same time, doing what they loved to do the most...together.

Our deepest sympathy to their family and friends in the US, France and beyond.
Daniel and Montaine were a true inspiration to so many.
We were priviledged and proud to have met them a few times over the years.
May their memory live forever.

Jacques and Jane Lonchambon
Port Charlotte, Florida

Although our memories will forever keep them in our hearts, it hurts too much right now to say more than "until we meet again, our friends".

I don't remember when I met them - they were just always there. From my earliest memories as a little girl - they were the nice French people that performed at the Sussex airshow each and every year. To my most recent memories - they were friends who helped me and my family when we needed help the most. I thought that they were immortal - I just assumed that they would always be there and I can't believe that they are gone. Goodby friends.

In the early fifties i remember the French Connection
flying teem touring the US. When the tour was over i had the pleasure of helping remove the wings from the aircraft and put them aboard US cargo acft to fly them back to France.They left from Greenville SC.Greenville,AFB(renamed Donaldson AFB)I was a civil service employee at that time.They were a great flying team. My condolences

We will miss not having you with us

The first year Daniel and Montaine came to our show, we had a get together at our house. As everyone sat on the deck, visiting, I was shocked to see our cat, who is TERRIFIED of strangers curled up on Daniel's knee. Tattoo know instantly what we all soon learned: to Daniel--and to Montaine, as well--there were no strangers.

Till we meet again, guys.

You both loved what you did and the joy you brought to millions will never be forgotten.you were the best and you will never be forgotten by your fans.

Thank You

To the family and friends of Montaine and Daniel, we all share in your loss.
Thank you Montaine and Daniel for 20 years of memories.
God speed.

I did not have the pleasure of knowing Daniel and Montaine. In fact, I only heard of their tragic passing on the news today.

By looking at the amount of messages on this page, I see they have left behind an overwhelming amount of loved ones and friends.

What a truly wonderful life they must of had. Living out their dreams and passions, together. They are truly inspiring to even those who never knew them.

My deepest sympathies to the friends and family of Daniel and Montaine.

Daniel and Montaine, thaks for making me feel at home
in your school, you will always be the best!!

My deepest sympathy to everyone who's lives were touched by Daniel and Montaine. Surely anyone who ever was fortunate enough to meet them will never forget them. As individuals they were warm and open, always welcoming friends both new and old, as pilots they were two of the finest I have ever seen, never failing to both impress and inspire me with their precision, grace, and the seemingly effortless way they flew as they brought their beautiful performance to thousands every year. I am saddened by their passing, but take comfort in the knowledge that they died as they lived, together, and doing the one thing they loved most of all in this world. I will miss them.

Au Revoir Daniel and Montaine, bon volant.

See ya later guys

In remembering Daniel & Montaine I like to think of what made them special. At Sun-n-Fun I looked into Montaine's cockpit and saw a vacant instrument slot occupied by a photo of Daniel--in Daniel's cockpit I found a photo of Montain--more confirmation they were two soul mates doing together what they loved doing.
May God be with you, Daniel & Montaine, as you slip the surly bonds of earth.

We were blessed to have known them. They were truly the best. Love in the air. Fly forever.

Montaine once told me that the hardest thing about the airshow business was losing so many good friends... You were the best. I'll never forget you

Recently a senior retired pilot whom I had flown for as a First Officer, now in his eighties came to my retirement party. I comented to him on how good he looked and he said, the only problem with living this long is that you keep losing friends. Montaine and Daniel have stayed with us in our home and their mirror image picture resides, as it has for many years on my office wall. We are filled with saddness on losing you, and your picture will stay on our wall and your memory in our hearts. God bless both of you. Marilyn and Al Hauff

The loss of The French Connection is as great a loss to all of aviation as their presence was a gift to all of aviation....We'll miss your graceful performances and friendly smiles at all the airshows around the country. Fred, Julie, and Baron Johnson

C'est avec une profonde tristesse que nous avons appris cette terrible nouvelle.
Nous garderons un souvenir inoubliable des heures d'entrainement que vous nous avez tous deux prodiguées avec une telle patience, ainsi que ces si sympatiques moments passés ensemble.
Avec notre sincère amitié,
Marcel et Liliane

It was an honor to know and fly with you. You shared your kindness and wisdom freely and were a true inspiration. You were the best, and will live on in our hearts and minds forever.

Two friends forever in our hearts

The angels in Heaven have met their match. The artistry demonstrated by this loving pair can put the most experienced of celestial flyers to embarassment.

Fly on, Daniel! Fly on, Montain. Stop by Asteroid B612 and hello to A. St-E. for us all!

I first saw The French Connection at Oshkosh in 1987. I was an eighteen year old fledgling commercial pilot and new to the sport of aerobatics.
There was a special elegance to thier routine that was poetry. Montaine and Daniel touched me deeply and futhered my love of aviation and flight. God be with their friends a family and help them through this difficult time.

Todd E. Burk
Norman, OK

I first saw Daniel and Montaine fly more than 20 years ago and had the opportunity to meet them 10 years when I made it to the other side of the airshow fence. What a fabulous couple! I will never forget them! I remember they mentioned they may be retiring the act then (10 years ago) Obviously they decided against it. They have lived their dream; as we all should.

Salut, Daniel and Montaine! Long live your memories...

Paul

We thanked them over and over for the special thrill they gave my friend and myself when we flew in their twin planes, over Flagler, doing one of their airshows. I flew with Montaine and my friend with Daniel. We knew we were in the best of hands because they were the best. They gave us an opportunity to fly like birds, twisting,turning, gliding, soaring. I always knew I had gotten to do something very special with very special people. My autographed photo, my French Connection tee shirt have now become priceless. Airshows will always be lacking now for their absence, but those of us who knew them, saw them, flew with them will always remember them. Thank you for your gift, Montaine and Daniel.

Toutes mes condoléances à la famille et aux proches.
Un dernier merci à Montaine et Daniel pour avoir partagé leurs savoir, expertise et d'innombrables moments de bonheur.

As a mere spectator, I too marveled w/ the thousands present at each event the beauty of their aeriel ballet. We will sadly miss this fantastic duet! Together in a life well lived...Together Forever in the Great Blue Heavens Beyond! A Fond Adieu!!!

We shared dinner together one evening in December of 1999 while attending the ICAS convention. While breaking bread and sharing wine they shared some of their wonderful life experiences with me. My best wishes are with their friends and family.

Recently a retired pilot, now in his eighties whom I had flown for as a First Officer attended my retirement dinner. I commented to him about how good he looked and he said that the only thing wrong with his life was that he kept losing friends.
While we are saddened by the loss we feel, but we know that Montaine and Daniel lived their lives to the fullest, doing what they wanted and accepted the ever present danger.
Their picture has hung on my office wall for many years, and it will remain there, as their memory will with us. God bless them both.

Daniel and Montaine, Happy to have known you.
The Florida Aero Club will miss you.

We watched with awe the beauty and grace as you performed. We will truly miss you.

gods speed my friends ,rest in peace

Jamais esqueceremos suas visitas, suas manobras, mas acima de tudo, vocês.

Our condolences to family, friends, and all who knew Daniel and Montaine. our lives were truly enriched by a great friendship for many years.

we had the plaisure and honor of meeting this great couple in oshkosh in 97.
our next formation loop will be dedicated to them.
blue skies.

We flew out of Dutchess County Airport with Montaine and Daniel.

They will be missed.

Our sincere condolences.

John and Betty Eblen

We feel very blessed to have know such wonderful people and surely will miss them. I am so glad we stopped by their business several times at Flager Beach and that my husband got the chance to take a lesson. I know that the avaiation community feels this loss strongly.

Our prayers and love go out to their families. We will miss you.

Jim and Carol Canady
Garner, North Carolina

Daniel & Montaine, Blue Skies Forever!

After many years of watching this team at every air show from New York to Oshkosh and Florida, I felt that the French Connection was my team. I finally had the extreme honor of meeting this extraordinary couple in person this year at Sun N Fun and I am glad to say they were as friendly as they were skilled. I am saddened by the loss but glad I was able to experience the wonder of the Frnech Connection

You opened my eyes to aerobatics and the desire to learn. It was a great privilidge to be able to fly with you Montaine and learn from you. I will miss you guys very much and will always keep you all in my heart. Thank you for everything

In Reply to: Remembering Montaine by Steve Pennypacker on May 28, 2000 at 01:21:02:

Montaine and Claude Chanclu were the ones who introduced me acro, oh so many years ago. I'm in a bit of shock right now - just found out about the accident a few hours ago. Like Steve, I never really got to know Daniel, but Montaine - oh, she was so special. I remember that earnest smile that came so easily - for the novice, for the curious stranger, for me, for everyone. It wasn't an airshow smile - not something for the camera. It was the smile of someone who took a profound joy in life and flight, and who welcomed as a friend everyone who shared that bond.

"They shall grow not They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them."

-pablo

We will miss you very much

We will miss you, the aviation gifts that you have given will be treasured forever. Now make your beautiful poetry in the heavens. Goodbye.

You guy's will be deeply missed. Aviation has experienced a great loss. I will miss your professionalism and down to earth attitudes. We have shared good times while being neighbors these past 11 years. May the wind always be at your back and warm sunshine on your face.

Until we meet again .............

Tripp

Thank you for making us dream.
You also showed to the world that a man and a woman
could fly side by side without problems. Should certain
airline pilots learn from that.

My best regards to the family,

David a passionate aerobatic pilot of a cap-10B

Our family was very saddened by the passing of Montaine and Daniel. I have been watching them for most of the years they have been flying in the US (and never tired of watching them).

Our oldest son Michael (8) has ADHD. Montaine (among others) had sent Michael notes of encouragement, photo's etc to help keep him motivated in school (he wants to be a pilot). Michael (and my wife and I) were looking forward to seeing them again this year at Oshkosh and at our local airshow at Lunken in August.

While the risks of airshow work are known, and were accepted by Daniel and Montaine, we cannot help but be saddened at the loss of these superb pilots, and most all superb people.

Dave, Darlene, Michael & Kevin Hamblin

We will miss you dear friends

Daniel & Montaine were two of the nicest and most porofessional people we had the pleasure of working with and calling our friends for more than 20 years. We will truly miss them and their wonderful performance.
Joan & Andy

Thank you for the joy you brought watching you perform over the years, you will be missed.

You introduced me to aerobatics--and told me about the best "baguette" in Florida...
Farewell, my friends, you will be missed!

Philippe

From the first time I saw the French Connection fly
when they first came to the U.S. until the last time
I saw them perform at Amigo Airsho in El Paso,
they were consumate professionals who thrilled both
crowds and pilots. That was spectacular. Even greater
was the shared fun and friendship over the years.

Laughing, telling pilot stories, and sharing our lives
fills my memories of the these beautiful individuals.
Thank you, Daniel & Montaine, for allowing me into
your life. God speed, dear friends.

You introduced me to aerobatics--and told me about the best "baguette" in Florida...
Farewell, my friends, you will be missed!

Philippe

You both are in my prayers.

Forever in Flight!
My heart is filled with deep sorrow.
As so many, I admired, loved and enjoyed watching
you both. You were a great inspiration to me.
My heartfelt sympathy to your family and closest
friends.
I will never forget you!

Sigrid Baumann

We will always remember you

Their aerobatics class made me a better pilot, and helped my family feel more secure about my flying. Their kindness to our family while I was at their school made it a very special time. They were the best.

It was a pleasure to work with you. You will be missed greatly.

Montaine et Daniel.... We will miss you in Quebec City where you came so often and gave the best of yourselves and made us proud of being pilots in the company of the best..... Merci pour votre gentillesse et les amis et les Québécois garderont les meilleurs souvenirs de vous deux.... you touched the face of God for all of us....

In Reply to: Aurevoir mes amis ! posted by Laval Duquet on May 29, 2000 at 21:26:38:

: Montaine et Daniel.... We will miss you in Quebec City where you came so often and gave the best of yourselves and made us proud of being pilots in the company of the best..... Merci pour votre gentillesse et les amis et les Québécois garderont les meilleurs souvenirs de vous deux.... you touched the face of God for all of us....

Montaine et Daniel.... We will miss you in Quebec City where you came so often and gave the best of yourselves and made us proud of being pilots in the company of the best..... Merci pour votre gentillesse et les amis et les Québécois garderont les meilleurs souvenirs de vous deux.... you touched the face of God for all of us....

My sympathy to the family of two of the very greatest.

It was an honor and a privaledge to know Daniel and Montaine since 1973. I was Montaines commerial instructor in those early days up in New York,and we remained friends though the years.It was an answer to my prayers to be instructed in aerobatics by Daniel in the cap 10 . The world will be a saddened place for the loss of these terrific people.

Your unique act and professionalism will be missed. Thank you for the "fun rides" for my kids. They'll never forget the joy of flying that you exhibited in every maneuver.

The Aviation Community lost two of it's very best mentors on 27 May 2000.Their spirit,determination and wisdom will live on forever in the hearts of all pilots and air show spctators.

Those of us fortunate enough to be employed by Daniel and Montaine were not just employees. We were family. Now, a large part of the family; and a large part of my youth, is gone. Forever....

Good Bye

Bosses

Have known you for such a short time but you made us feel so special, as though we had known each other for years. You will be missed, but in our memories forever. God bless you both.

Daniel and Montaine were always a joy to work with and to be around. They will be sorely missed. My youngest son Matthew was 7 when they let him help pass out pictures at the Pratt and Whitney 60th Anniversary Open House. It was a big deal to him then, and he still talks about it at 21.

Adieu mes amis.

So beautiful in the air, you made perfection look easy.
It is so sad. We will miss you mightily!

Thank you for the fun times we had together. We will miss you.
Your Friends

The Kearneys

Good friends, good memories, good times. These will live on in our hearts.

Forever Loved, Forever missed

In Reply to: Daniel and Montaine posted by Mike Mysicka on May 29, 2000 at 22:45:39:

: Those of us fortunate enough to be employed by Daniel and Montaine were not just employees. We were family. Now, a large part of the family; and a large part of my youth, is gone. Forever....

: Good Bye

: Bosses

Mike, thank you for your heartfelt thanks for our two friends. Airplanes are my life. Airplanes were the lives of our friends. Tomorrow Al Bromka & I will fly our CAP 10'S in formation[we do often]in on honer of the FRENCH CONNECTION.
STEVE/WHEELS Wieland

French Connection the Airshow Box is yours, you are cleared into the BIG BOX in the sky. It's Gods turn to watch you perform for the angels.

I was deeply saddened to learn of the deaths of Montaine and Daniel. I had the honor of viewing their graceful performance at Skyfest 2000-Augusta,Georgia in April. This was only the second airshow that I have attended in my life. I was truly in awe at the grace and beauty in which "The French Connection" performed. My wife and I had even commented on the way home from the airshow how much we would enjoy seeing them perform again next year. Such a tragic loss, but what an opportunity to experience the performance. Soar without limits now, Montaine and Danilel.

I will miss our instant messaging Montaine and worrying about Daniels health. I am still moving to Florida this coming month and where will you be? I will look for you. I will look for you in the sky because thats where you two belonged together. Your one last flight here on earth before you joined the angels flying school.I will miss you both, your energy,your hopes and dreams, so much. I will miss watching the ballet in the sky. I love you both-Godspeed, Katie ( -!- & -!- )

Montaine, thank you for the encouragment and support to follow a dream.

Daniel, merci for your wonderful laugh, your sense of fun and your zest for life.

My friends, you have 'slipped the surly bonds of earth' but you will remain in our hearts and thoughts forever.

Seeing their ballet in the sky was one of the most breathtaking and beautiful things I had ever seen. Celebrate their life and know that they will forever fly together!

Whether performing before crowds, imparting their knowlege on future performers, or serving the Air Show industry through ICAS, everything they did was done with grace. Montaine and Daniel you will be greatly missed, but will remain in our hearts forever. It was a great honor to serve with you.

Major Rick Kurtzer
CFB Borden, Canada

D & M.......

Thank you.......Thank you for your time, talent, energy and memories.......

Gerry Sheahan

i always loved watching them. so graceful. i once went along on a press ride, flying with Montaine and enjoying some fantastic thrills. after that experience i always felt proud when i watched them in an airshow. they were just wonderful and i'll miss them terribly.

Ce fut un énorme privilège de vous avoir comme amis.Votre hospitalité ,votre coeur ,votre générosité étaient à la mesure de vos performances: Enormes.
Nous ne réalisons pas que les soirées de rire et de bonheur avec vous seront sans lendemain.
Nos sincères amitiés aux parents et amis avec qui nous partageons la plus profonde détresse.

It was a great hohor to serve with you.
Thanks.
Anton Dolgov. Russia.

I would like to let you know that my wife and my son and I met them during an airshow at Langley AFB VA. My wife's father (Tom Gehman) was a very good friend of theirs. When we called their name they didn't hesitate to come over and talk with us it was like old friends. They were great that day as in many other shows. They will be missed. To those who knew them personally, Our deepest felt sorrow goes to you and to Daniel and Montaine family. God has taken them home. So rest easy knowing they will be taken care of.

It was a great honor to fly with you.
Anton Dolgov. Russia.

Cher Montaine and Daniel,

I very much appreciated your positive attitude and valuable advice in the preparation of my book. I was hoping to fly with you in Florida and to share a bottle of champagne. The book containing your foreword will be released in the US this month. It is called 'Skydancing' in honor of you - the very best aerobatic display pilots.

My thoughts are with you, your family and friends and most of all - our fellow aerobatic pilots, world-wide.

You will be sadly missed but always remembered.

David Robson

My friends, now you soar with angels. Teach them well your style and love of flight so that they too can smile with the wind and dance with you. My greatest pleasure was to fly with you! We miss you...Sam & Marie.

Ne vous voyant pas assez, mais pensant toujours à vous ; parlant de vous avec fierté à la première occasion venue....ceci restera éternel.
Je vous embrasse aussi fort que c'est possible, et sachez que je m'occuperais au mieux des nôtres et surtout de Papy et mamy.
LOVE TO YOU AND TO THE FAMILY.

Une trace dans le ciel... nos vies ne sont peut-etre rien d'autre, mais Dieu qu'elles sont belles lorsque nous y mettons le meilleur de nous-memes. Dans ce domaine vous étiez passés maitres et votre double panache de pionniers y reste gravé a jamais.
Montaine, Daniel, que "l"Hymne a la Joie" continue de vous guider et vous aide a réaliser vos reves inachevés.
-- Marianne

You will surely be missed!

avec notre sympathie attristée pour leurs familles et leurs amis

Fliers of the most beautiful aerial ballets and delightful people who started so many (us included) in this wonderful art we call aerobatics. May they rest in peace. We will miss them.

My family met Montaine and Daniel last August when they flew at the local airshow. My father's company was one of their sponsors and Montaine took my dad up flying with her during practice. What a thrill for him! They took the time to come meet our children and everyone enjoyed their company. Recently, in January, my 14 year old daughter and I ran into the couple in Downtown Disney. They had just left the Cirque de Soleil with Montaine's parents, visiting from France. We chatted during the bus ride back to the hotel about how coincidental it was, meeting so far away from our home. They wished my family well. I'm so glad we got a chance to see them again. They will be sadly missed. My heart and prayers are with your families at this time.
Au Revoir Friends,
Pamela Eckenrode

but never forgotten. As long as there are pilots who are passionate about what they do, particularly aerobatics, their spirits will never be truly gone from us!

I will never forget the French Connection I have loved to watch them fly for 13 years now. Watching them helped me to understand may things, because I was always at a moment of peace when they flew.

I will miss the French Connection. Both Daniel and Montaine were great people. They would always take the time to talk about the CAP 10 and at the Airshow in Athens this year we talked at length about Claud Piels aircraft. I shall miss them both. The aviation community has lost a class act.

Thank you, Friends...

In Reply to: Daniel....Montaine posted by Red Baron's Jerry and Margaret on May 30, 2000 at 08:11:40:

We will miss you....have many fond memories of EAA and working with you...Wish clear skies for you both..

Both me and Magda wish to offer our deepest sympathies to the passing of Daniel and Montaine.
Two and a half years ago Magda won an intro flight with Montaine at the skyfest, she still talks
about the experience of being able to fly with the greatest formation pilot in the world.
Montaine and Daniel, you will both be missed greatly.
Pat, Magda and Amelia

I have had the pleasure of meeting Daniel and Montaine at the Wings of Freedom Airshow here in Frederick, Maryland.
We shared many happy moments and truly enjoyed their performance at each and every show.
They are flying with the angels now, and will be truly missed.
They passed from this earth to heaven together, doing what they loved!
My Out deepest sympathies to the friends and family of Daniel and Montaine.

Keep on flying, for we will join you later in heaven.
Diane and Kent Gittings, Frederick, Maryland

My first contact with aerobatic pilots was with Montaine and Daniel at Dutchess County airport more than a few years ago. I will remember the joy of seeing them perform over the years, the opportunity to take instruction with them at Flagler, and the too brief time spent with them on the ground. They will be missed but not forgotten. Goodbye and thank you for the memories.

You will never know how much Daniel and Montaine meant to us. They had so much to do with our lives, we thought about them daily. We are so thankful for the time we had together. LAst Labor Day weekend, 1999, they flew the Morris Skyfest Airshow and we had them out to our home. Dinner and a boat ride. That is how we will remember them. Happy all the time. We will miss them.

I will always remember PUTSCH and not too bad. You will be missed. As your first student at Sky Acres thanks for all the good times and the lessons in airmanship.

It will never be the same at Flagler County Airport without you. The opportunity to have gotten to know you both the last year has been one of the high points of my time there. I will miss so much the sight of The French Connection practicing, and of sitting with you in Wings Restaurant while you drank your Miller Hi-Life after work.
Blue Skies to you both, and may God Bless. The world has lost two of its Artists!

Daniel and Montaine, we'll terribly miss you. For Genevieve, Elsa, Alexandre, and myself, you'll be always in our heart.

Gerard Brousse, currently in France

How so very sad. You both took me and I'm sure so many others aside and made us safer and better performers, and still God choose you over us. I'm sure there is a reason for this though the rain that must be falling in my eyes will make it hard to see it for some time. If you get bored up there, don't ever hesitate to come down and fly with me and the rest of those who loved and admired you. There's always room for you both.

The first time I watched the French Connection practice for the Wings of Freedom Airshow at Frederick Maryland, I held my breath the whole time. The beauty of their flight was an awe inspiring experience. The last time we spoke (8/20/99), my wife showed them a program from the late seventies in which they were featured. As Montaine went through the program, she pointed out all the performers who were no longer with us. May they find peace with their old friends and comfort in knowing how mush their beauty will be missed on earth, both as performers and wonderful people.

You were exceptionally talented pilots---you were wonderful friends---you will be missed.

We will never forget Daniel's great smile and big hugs, Montaine's wisdom and gentle heart. Your spirit will always be with us......as you fly forever...side by side.

Like you, I loved those people. How glad we all were when they finally got married! How sad we all are now that we can only see them on old video tape. Dammit.

We share the grief and loss of two wonderful friends...Blue skies forever

We will miss you greatly. Now you can dance in the sky
together, forever.

Love,
Mel and BJ

Message from Don Barkley Sutherland should read Don AND Barkley Sutherland

They did what they loved to do.

FOND memories. Doug Schenk

We wish to express our sadness with the loss of
Montaine and Daniel. They were a wonderful example
of grace and beauty. They will be missed by us and
our friends.

I love you Montaigne and Daniel
I do not want to say "were" or "was"
I am flying in those beautiful red and white planes
with the whole world visible.
Watch as we float on our backs in the sky
and spin and dive and then relax
as the earth and sky straighten out.
Danielle is grinning at me. Montaigne is criticising me.
Do not go. You are not gone for me.

I love you

Daniel & Montaine were always there to support their fellow performers, whether in the performer tent at an airshow, or on stage as a past recipient of the "Bill Barber Award For Showmanship" to honor the new recipient. They were honest, thoughtful people, and were truly professional in every sense of the word. Their lost is a big blow to our industry, and we not soon be forgotten.

Dave & Peggy Weiman
World Airshow News
& Airshow Professional

I love you Montaigne and Daniel
I do not want to say "were" or "was"
I am flying in those beautiful red and white planes
with the whole world visible.
Watch as we float on our backs in the sky
and spin and dive and then relax
as the earth and sky straighten out.
Danielle is grinning at me. Montaigne is criticising me.
Do not go. You are not gone for me.

I love you

TO Montaine & Daniel

Daniel & Montaine 'Gone West'; A sad loss.

A beautiful act by beautiful people.
We'll always regret that we didn't get that personal
tour of Paris we discussed.
Cheers!

Thank you both for sharing your lives with so many of us!
I know of few who loved each other so much. I will look to the sky from time to time to see the two of you performing your eternal ballet for all who wish to see it.

Adieu.

Daniel & Montaine 'Gone West'; A sad loss.

Daniel & Montaine were symbolic to the professionalism of this industry -- they were great pilots, great showmen and great business people, and they truly cared about others in this industry. As past recipients of the "Bill Barber Award For Showmanship," Daniel and Montaine would never miss the presentation of the award to the next recipient, and believed in and gave meaning to the award. Their loss is a big blow to the industry, but like many others before them, we are all better for having known and worked with them, and for their many contributions. Much love to two wonderful friends!

Dave & Peggy

We will all miss you whether as a fan or a friend. I remember meeting Daniel and Montaine when I was young at Orange County NY for their annual aerobatic contest. I also remember them every year when we went to Oshkosh. They were truly wonderful people. Very down to earth, sincere and friends in the true sense of the word. They were dear friends with my parents and made some very fond childhood memories for me. I only wish as an adult I had been able to spend more time with them and that my daughters could have seen them do what they loved to do the most. May you rest in peace Daniel and Montaine and reunite with your friend, my Dad (Val)who passed on 3/8/00 to soar over us and become one with the sky.

It was with great sadness to learn of this tragedy.
I had the opportunity to have instruction from Montaine
and it was an experience that I will never forget.
To watch these two great pilots perform brought
chills and smiles. They will be greatly missed!

The passion and knowledge towards the world of flying and aerobatics you both shared with others was remarkable. Although I only had the opportunity to fly through your school once a few years ago, the time and knowledge you shared with me will always be remembered. You will both be missed.

They were the best of people, so VITAL, so alive. They were the ultimate role model for many, they loved each other and what they did and were full of joy for their lives. Knowing them, watching them, helps to keep the faith that it IS possible in today's sad world. They died living their dream, they would have no regrets. It is only hard for those of us left behind.
Abide Friends...

Having recently lost a dear friend and fellow aerobatic pilot, Jim Kennedy, we at Spruce Creek Fly In are doubly saddened by the tragic news of Montaine and Daniel. Our loss and sympathy for their families is deeply felt.

Having recently lost a dear friend and fellow aerobatic pilot, Jim Kennedy, we at Spruce Creek Fly In are doubly saddened by the tragic news of Montaine and Daniel. Our loss and sympathy for their families is deeply felt.

I saw them at the Wings of Freedom airshow in Frederick,
MD. A magnificent example of elegance and grace.

Not knowing them personally I can only pass on my
sympathy to those loved ones they left behind and note
that their passing will leave on unfillable void
within the world of flight.

Blue Skies Daniel and Montaine ...

Dany and Montaine, thank you both for some of the best times of my life. That first hour of aerobatic training with you back in 1973 is still as fresh in my mind as when it happened. There will never be another couple like you, nor better friends than you. Larry and Kathy

Aviators are my heroes. Daniel and Montaine were with me every year at my home airshow in northern New Jersey. (Sussex) Daniel ascended to the skies in a missing man formation to honor my earliest aerobatic hero Leo Loudenslager. Who now will ascend to the heavens in formation for Daniel and Montaine? In the past few days I have been there in my dreams to pull up into the heavens for these two great aviators.
There was no one like you.
Blue Skies Forever.

You have provided beautiful memories for so many which will live on in our hearts and souls. We will always see you flying whenever we look at a perfect blue sky.

Daniel and Montaine:

I will miss your smiles, friendship and flying . . . something I shared with you at air shows for 25 years. I respected your abilities and professionalism, which set a standard for all to follow. I will always remember your warmth and friendliness, which you shared with my family and the air show community. Fond memories will remain with me always. Sharon, Lesley and I miss you.

Tom Poberezny and family

I did not find out until today, May 30, of Montaine & Daniel's accident. I am so sorry. I saw them perform
many, many times & talked to them many times as well. They were always very pleasant & were always willing to talk to
you & answer any questions. They're performances were always fantastic. I always admired what they did. They will be
sorely missed professionally & personally. My prayers & thoughts are with them, their friends & families.

As dedicated and selfless ambassadors of aviation, thank you for sharing your formations of symmetry and grace. You both are fondly remembered within our hearts and our minds have you visioned forever in the sky.

In so many different ways, the world of air shows will never be the same. Thanks for everything.

Daniel and Montaine,

On the wings of professionalism you flew,
and you tained me with the same to be my best.
We cry and we are deeply sadden by your lost,
I know that in the hands of God you rest...

Paul and Juliana

Never could you walk away from Daniel or Montaine and not have a smile on your face. Even when Montaine was scolding you for keeping Daniel up late. Not only were they world class performers, they were also world class people. But if you ever met them, you already know that. You will be missed my friends.

For my daughters, Daniel & Montaine were their first experiences with professional airshow performers. I remember and delighted at the awe in which my kids held these two.

Daniel and Montaine inspired to emulation being the best a roll model could be.

After working under them for more than a dozen years, my crew and I still stopped to watch two of the finest performers, pilots and people in our business today.

I, my family and the members of our team will miss them deeply.

Mike Schwab
Tora Bomb Squad

God gives us all different gifts,few of us are given the oppertunity to share them with so many others.

Daniel and Montaine will be sorely missed by all who knew them. I shared office space with them for 12 years at Duchess County Airport before leaving to join the FAA and got to know them as true friends. Afterward, I was priveleged to work with them again when they performed at the El Toro Airshow. I developed the same love and respect for them that all who knew them shared. They were true professionals, always striving to better their craft and to share their knowledge and love of it with others. Their enthusiasm was contagious.
Aux revoire mes amis.

In Reply to: You were the consummate professionals and beloved mentors. posted by John Goldfluss on May 30, 2000 at 13:48:33:

: Daniel and Montaine will be sorely missed by all who knew them. I shared office space with them for 12 years at Duchess County Airport before leaving to join the FAA and got to know them as true friends. Afterward, I was priveleged to work with them again when they performed at the El Toro Airshow. I developed the same love and respect for them that all who knew them shared. They were true professionals, always striving to better their craft and to share their knowledge and love of it with others. Their enthusiasm was contagious.
: Aux revoire mes amis.

Goodbye, you two. You werre great pilots and
great friends.

I flew with Montaine as a student in her CAP10 out of Flagler. Only a few times but I will always remember those hours - and Montaine who was a formidable instructor. We spent most of the time inverted and recovering from spins, practicing until I got it right. Montaine showed me how easy it is to stall/spin from the turn onto final. I'll remember that too - and ensure that I don't fall into the trap. For meaking me a safer pilot, and for the hours of pleasure at the ballet, Thank you both.
Nick Rushby G-BLZM

There will always be a place for you in the hearts of GA folks.

My family was fortunate enough to have known Daniel and Montaine very well. The best words to describe them are simply, joie de vivre. They really did enjoy life to the fullest. I've never met anyone who truly loved what they did as much as Daniel and Montaine. What a terrible loss for their families, friends and the world of aviation. They left this world doing what they loved best, flying together. Adieu Daniel et Montaine.

Dear Josh, Mr.Smith, Bruno and all...

I was shocked to learn what had happened to Montaine & Daniel.
Please accept my deepest sympathy in the great loss of two magnificent persons.

Sincerely

Kurt Norevik
Norway
IAC # 27356

Have thought of you (both) often since September, 1975.
Will never forget you. Thanks for the great memories.

They took our breath away with the skill and beauty of their air show performances. Their smiles were infectious. They inspired countless young people to learn to fly. They're gone now, but never forgotten among those of us who love aviation.

I'm very sorry for the loss of Daniel and Montaine.

They will be remembered for their grand contribution in aerobatics and the joy and inspiration they brought to everyone in each show they performed and each moment shared in their lives.

Our thoughts and prayers are with them, their friends and family.

To the family and friends of Daniel and Montaine, I know that we join hundreds of others whos lives were touched by the easy-to-know couple who performed so beautifully together. This will be a great loss to aviation and the planet earth. Dick and Suzie Azar, El Paso, Texas

We were landing our seaplane at Flagler last Saturday and enjoying the show. Little did we expect that this would be the final performance of two aviation greats. We are honored to have seen them perform and sad to see them pass. As a flying couple, this tragedy has touched us deeply. Our condolences to their friends and family. May Daniel and Mallet keep climbing together forever.

The "World" will miss the both of you...

My condolences to all their friends and family. I have seen Daniel and Montaine fly many times, and was always moved by their grace and coordination. They flew close together as gracefully as two dancers whirling arm in arm. I will miss them.

We will miss them deeply as they always gave time to there fans

You left many friends in Quebec City

The Red Baron Stearman Squadron extends deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Montaine and Daniel. God Bless

May they fly with the angels. What else can I say? They were the best.

The first time I saw The Frecnh Connection flying, I was a teenager at the Jimmy Stewart Airport in Indiana, PA. They were magnificent! Their incredible abilities were, in part, the inspiration for my pursuit of my private pilot license. I can remember thinking at that time how awesome it would one day be to study under them. Just last year, at the EAAA fly-in, I had the privelege of seeing their performance. The poem Montaine read, which was played during their flight was so beautiful that it brought tears to my eyes. Daniel & Montaine; Who, having seen you dance together in the sky, could have ever thought you would be taken from us in such a tragedy? As we'll not meet here, then in the air!

Love, D.F.

For five years I had the great honor of "driving" Daniel and Montaine down the flight line after their performance. I shall always remember them speaking to each other in French going over the routine they had just done.

They will be greatly missed at AirVenture in July!

Sympathy to all their family and friends.

For five years I had the great honor of "driving" Daniel and Montaine down the flight line after their performance. I shall always remember them speaking to each other in French going over the routine they had just done.

They will be greatly missed at AirVenture in July!

Sympathy to all their family and friends.

We all at the South Bend Regional Airport will miss
this couple, sending our deepest regrets to the family
members. What a tragedy to lose them so soon after our
Trans Expo event last year. They were a joy to watch
with all their theatrics & we loved their Arial heart.
May God be with us all as we mourn their loss.
)-: Stu B do & all the Crews :-(

Along with the Red Devils/Eagles I have been watching you fly as long as I can remember. I will miss you and the beautiful way you flew together. Alan Shepherd

Our only consolation is that you went together, doing what you loved most, and did so well.
We were looking forward seeing you again in Aubigny.

En pensées avec vos familles.

We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Daniel
and Montaine. Our students, faculty, and staff have
watched in awe and admiration as they performed their
aerial ballet at local airshows. The French Connection
visited campus often to meet with our students and to
share their passion for aviation. Our thoughts and
prayers are with their family, friends, and fans.
They will be missed by all of us at Embry-Riddle
Aeronautical University.

Tom Connolly
Chancellor

Montaine taught us aerobatics, she and Daniel gave us lessons in formation flight, but the best gift was themselves. To us they were bigger than life and everyday people at the same time. We are indeed lucky to have known them and will always treasure our memories of the great times together and the laughter that we shared. Goodbye dear friends, until we meet again....

Toute l'équipe de Midi-Pyrénées Voltige souhaite exprimer sa profonde sympathie à tous les proches de Montaine et Daniel.
Cet évènement tragique nous bouleverse, nous touche dans notre vie de voltigeur, de pilote, d'homme et de femme.
Montaine et Daniel, nous n'oublierons jamais ce que vous avez fait pour la voltige.

L'équipe d'MPV.

Of the hundred or so times I watched their performances, the French Connection never became routine. Their flawless and awe inspiring performances will be missed by very many.
I know they still do as they loved, for an eternity. Us who remain mourn our loss.
Bob Snyder
CAF Tora Bomb Squad.

I will always remember the good times we had at IAC events and shows. I had hoped we would get together at Oshkosh, but that was not meant to be. You have joined our mutual friend Val Beaudrault now and I know you will keep each other company.
Until our paths cross again mes amis,
Roscoe (Rocky)

I will never forget Daniel and Montaine, the frustrating flights that I had trying to learn the basics with Montaine coaching me on in the Cap 10 ....You both were an inspiration, and I will always hear you telling me that I have to be a disiciplined pilot.. Montaine. I saw you both just before my journey to Europe began, and just a few weeks ago I was in awe at Daniels former team the patrollie France. Thank you both for the memories and the lessons !

I will never forget you and your influence on my life !

DANIEL AND MONTAINE, you will be missed, godspeed and good tailwinds.

My heart is very sad with this great aviation loss. May they rest in pease. JIM

WE HAD THE PLEASURE AND GOOD FORTUNE TO SEE THIS GREAT TEAM THREE TIMES THROUGH THE PAST FEW YEARS.YOU'LL BE REMEMBER FONDLY AND WITH GREAT RESPECT FOR THE WONDERFUL PEOPLE YOU WERE AND ALL THE PLEASURE YOU GAVE THE WORLD THROUGH YOUR PROFESSIONAL SHOWMANSHIP.FLY IN PEACE WITH OUR GOD.

Montaine and Daniel will truly be missed in the
aviation world. As one of the few Cap-10 owners
in the U.S. Montaine was always there to help
whenever I called. And always gave me a dose of
reality when she would always end her call with:
"Alan, Fly safe!" This is a great loss to us all
in aviation, they brought such joy to so many hearts
with their flying and left us doing what they loved.
Myself and fellow Cap-10 owner Steve "Wheels" Wieland
regulaly fly our Cap-10s in formation in Southwestern
Pennsylvania. Our formation flights for the remainder
of this summer will be in honor of "The French
Connection" Daniel and Montaine. Please salute
them when we fly by. Thank you Montaine.
Alan Bromka

Danel and Montaine, you will be missed. Godspeed and good tailwinds.

It is with great sadness I heard reported the passing
of an era. I have seen Daniel and Montaine perform at
both Sun-N-Fun and Oshkosh. Never have I seen such precision and sheer love of flight. Time and time again, inspired by these two artists, I and other pilots like me have been shown flight as art, perhaps for the first time. It is sad to know the likes of which will not be seen again, but their memories will live forever in my mind.

I wish to express my deepest sympathy all the family and friends of Daniel and Montaine.

David E. Carroll
Acworth, GA USA

Montaine & Daniel were the best. When I was at REAL TV I had the opportunity to meet them at Air Venture `98 and they were terrific. I'm now at CBS's WHAT MY LINE? and they really wanted to help me and be on the show, but a previous committment prevented them from being on our show. Yet, Montaine took the time twice to try and help me out. She was that kind of truly NICE person, always looking out and trying to help others. They both will be missed. BLUE SKIES ALWAYS for the FRENCH CONNECTION - You Will be Missed!!!!

Daniel & Montaine, always a bright light, I will miss you both.

Daniel and Montaine I will miss you greatly. You were the most wonderful airshow aerobatic team in history. You have made everybody in the United States and Canada not to forget the grace of your aerobatics and poetry. So, fly with the angels and perform with the other airshow performers in that big airshow in heaven.

FRENCH CONNECTIONS FOREVER AND ETERNITY!!!!!!!!

You will always be remembered.

My first time in an airplane was with Daniel in the CAP-10 at Dutchess County Airport twenty some years ago. They will be missed.

My sincere condolences to Daniel and Montaine's family friends and loved ones.

Patty Todd

I met Montaine and Daniel many times over the years on the East Coast of North America between Montreal and Baltimore. Two of the nicest people anyone could ever want to meet. I have a letter Montaine sent me when I was only 12 years old and just plain (plane) crazy. I will always cherish that letter and the kindness of Montaine and Daniel...

You will never be forgotten.

Daniel and Montaine were our neighbors for over 8 years. I was at their wedding and they at my son's baptism. The only comfort I can take in this tragety is that I know that they left this world together, doing what they truly loved. That does not lessen the fact that a hole has been created in the world by their passing. I am yet a groundling, but I will hold them in my mind as the perform their beautiful ballet climbing to touch the face of GOD.

Terribly saddened to hear of yet another loss to the family of aviators. As has been said before, Daniel and Montaine were unique in their professionalism and precision, but they were also two very generous people, always giving of their time and expertise. We have been blessed to be counted among their friends and send deepest sympathies to all affected by this loss.
Steve & Trish Morris

Your our Angels in The Sky Forever,
People all over The World will miss you both very much.
"Your Free to Fly "

Fly With The Angels;
You will be missed by all of us around the air show circuit.
You were the best, and you always had time for the kids.
You were always friends with all of us in the TORA BOMB SQUAD and we will miss you immensly.
Soar with the angels and we will see you in Heaven.
Stan, TORA BOMB SQUAD

Montaine and Daniel, you shared your enthusiasm
and love for aerobatics with so many people. That
meant so much to me. I miss you.

Montaine and Daniel, you shared your enthusiasm
and love for aerobatics with so many people. That
meant so much to me. I miss you.

Thanks- For getting me through my first spin, loop, and roll- and for planting a seed that will live forever.

You will be missed. I am saddened by your loss. You taught me the finer points of flying and I am a better pilot for having known them. Thank you and you have my deepest condolences.

Larry A. Snyder CRNA
Pilot and life long student of Aerobatics

You will be missed. I am saddened by your loss. You taught me the finer points of flying and I am a better pilot for having known them. Thank you and you have my deepest condolences.

Larry A. Snyder CRNA
Pilot and life long student of Aerobatics

What sadness fills my heart with the untimely and tragic death of the two very warm and entertaining folks, Montaine and Daniel of The French Connection. My son, Joel Ray, was thrilled to have flown with you in the Cap 10 for a lesson in aerobatics. I shall never forget his jubilence at the conclusion of the rides. I am sure that these two fine folks are now flying with the angels....see them... there they are in the sky....forever in our memory!

ONE MORE ROLL

We toast our faithful comrades
Now fallen from the sky
And gently caught by God’s own hand
To be with Him on high.

To dwell among the soaring clouds
They knew so well before
From dawn patrol and victory roll
At heaven’s very door.

And as we fly among them there
Were sure to hear their plea--
“Take care, my friend; watch your six,
And do one more roll...Just for me.”

Gerald Coffee

The best has gone west. Once seen, once met, NEVER
forgotten. The brevity of life reminder: Job 14.

Two great people and aviation leaders now smile down on us. I had just returned from Paris and thought of them while I was over there. Aviation, France and the USA have lost a loving couple.

We have danced on the tables, We have danced in the skies, We have drank much wine , and told many tales. My years with you have been blessed and now I must say good-bye. Salute my friends.luv,bambi

I never met you guys in person, but I was privlaged to see you guys fly. You inspired me to become a pilot and I will never forget you.
Eric Don Fletcher

May we soar like eagles on the wings

Of dreams composed of light

Oh, eagle, in your splendor

May we follow you tonight

I have had the privilege of watching the grace and beauty of your performance. I am saddened with the loss of the epitome of aerobatic ballet.

I have had the privilege of watching the grace and beauty of your performance. I am saddened with the loss of the epitome of aerobatic ballet.

Sitting on the tailgate of a truck
We watch, heads tilted back into a sunny sky
The poetry of flight, the grace of two people
connected, the dreams of soaring with the birds

You will be missed.

I raise a glass to you.

On this day, we sadly say good-bye to two of the most dedicated people to aviation. Those that knew you will miss you. Your picture will remain on the wall as if you are still with us, because in heart and in soul, you are!!!!

Montaine and Daniel you will be missed by all of us who learned to fly aerobatics under your care and supervision. We loved to learn from you and to watch your beautiful sky ballet. Our hearts are saddened by such a loss.

Daniel and Montaine inspired us to a great extent with their absolutely perfect aerial ballet, displayed in extraordinary harmony.
They will always be remembered as the ideal example in aerobatic formation teamwork.
We will sadly miss the 'French Connection'...
Rainer Luff

The rest of us couldn't be who we are without them.

Thank you, Daniel & Montaine, for what you brought us.

There are so many people who got to meet at your house and made friends because of your hospitality that, one night, with a famous airshow announcer, we nicknamed your couple "The Friends Connection".

The connection, the friends are here, and so are you in my heart.

Claude.

another student Bill & Jean McLean

Re: thank you. J. Gorman Cook

Thank you for all your friendship and support. You will be sorely missed. Fly free together. From all your friends at Skydive Daytona Beach and Wings Sports Bar and Grill.

Montaine and Daniel: You may be gone from us, but the spirit and energy you both brought to the world will live on. We will never forget you or the pride we felt when you wore our name. Adieu friends.

We feel honoured to have known you.
What wonderful lives you have both lived.
Your spirit will live in our hearts forever.
Kaz & Mike

Saddness abounds, such a greatloss, two beautiful people, gone, my memories are great, and they will stay on with me forever, the world suffers by such a great loss!

Where are you now with your flying aerobatic finesse? If only we could continue to watch your wonderous skills. It is sad to not see you anymore. God Bless.

From the first time I saw them at an airshow in Newburgh New York in the 80's until recently at the Sussex Airshow, they were always wonderful to watch and photograph.
I will miss the precision; the french accent in the
spoken poem; the bald spot during the 4-point roll in
front of the crowd and the photo pass at the end.
Good bye and thank you. rab

The aerobatics family has lost two dear members.

Their love of flying and hard work was reflected on each performance and each moment they spent teaching others that it was possible to make their dreams come true.

I deeply regret the loss of Daniel and Montaine and would like to express my deepest sympathy to their family and friends.

Lorie B.

We will miss you.

Nous nous faisions une joie de vous rencontrer prochainement en France, afin de profiter de votre experience pour notre patrouille qui n a que trois ans. Nous ne vous oublierons jamais et votre show restera grave dans nos memoires.
La patrouille CAP10 de Midi Pyrenees Voltige.
Marie-Pierre et Gim

The French Connection--outstanding pilots and outstanding people. Bill and Betty Kershner

To the families of Daniel Heligoin and Montaine Mallet:

I am one of the many thousands of individuals who watched the Frendh Connection perform at airshows around the nation. They were always breathtakingly beautiful in flight -- true poetry in the air. In addition I will always remember meeting Daniel and Montaine on several occasions when they demonstrated that they were not only gifted pilots, but warm and wonderful individuals -- open, accessible, generous of spirit and eager to share their love of flying with fellow pilots and non-pilots alike. We share your grief at the loss of these truly wonderful people. The aviation community will never be the same without them, but is far better for having had them.

Bill Ingram's family sends it's deepest sympathy to Danielle and Montaine's family and the students and instructors of MudryAviation. My Dad flew with Danielle and Montaine when they were in Dutchess County. He would steal away on work days and family weekends just to fly with the best in the U.S. Dad passed away awhile ago...but Danielle and Montaine were so very nice to my Mom. The Cap 10 and the French Connection were household words in this family and it is with deepest regret we learned of their passing. But as with every pilot who flies the beautiful blue skies...they are the lucky ones because they touch the face of God.

I will miss you both.

two beautiful people taken from this earth too soon.Deepest sympathy to their families.

The French Connection always performed with such grace and elegance, making the art of aerobatics appear easy to the average person. The talent they possessed in flying will never be forgotten and will be missed.

You will be truly missed, the grace and beauty of your perfomances were a perfect offset of the brute power demonstrated by others. You always seemed to enjoy talking with the crowd, never to busy or above anyone. Truly great and gracious people that cannot be replaced.

In Reply to: Daniel et montaine posted by adam shaw on May 28, 2000 at 08:38:40:

Adamo,

Trying to reach you. Kids are doing well, we are in Lancaster CA at the Skunk Works. They remember you fondly.

Am so sorry to hear the news. Please email me at work: "frank.alvidrez@lmco.com" or at home: "fstfrnk@earthlink.net"

Joan and I miss you.

===> Fast

C'est avec consternation que nous avons appris ce malheur. Ils étaient si loin et si proche en même temps. La voltige aérienne perd l'un de ses meilleurs éléments. Ils étaient si soudés ensemble qu'ils ne faisaient qu'un dans leurs ballets aériens.
Adieu amis.

Michel et Yvette Sacaut
Canada

I had an opportunity to see Montaine and Daniel perform twice in Scranton, PA. Although having never met them personally, their performance in the air and charm on the flight line were exceptional.

My condolences to family and friends.

One need only to meet them to care about Montaine and Daniel. Perhaps this will bring some comfort to those of us still earthbound:

Do not stand at my grave and weep;
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow;
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain;
I am the gentle autumn's rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft star that shines at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry.
I am not there; I did not die.

Author Unknown

We are so sad, we will never forget you! See you in heaven! Your friends from Germany / CAP 10B S/N 15 Tom, Bernie, Rainer, Markus

Your warm smiles, pride and devotion to each other will always capture the essence of your character. You will be missed from the skies, but will always fly in our hearts. I will always be grateful for knowing you.

I will miss you both You lived life to the fullest and also loved each otherjust as much as two could.I admire you both and always will Till we meet again may God hold you both in the palm of his hand!!

I will miss you both You lived life to the fullest and also loved each otherjust as much as two could.I admire you both and always will Till we meet again may God hold you both in the palm of his hand!!

It was with deep sadness when we heard the news about Montaine and Daniel. We looked forward to seeing them perform at Oshkosh again this year and will truly miss their seminars. Our heartfelt sympathies to their family and friends. The aviation world has lost two wonderful enthusiasts.

In Reply to: Daniel and Montaine Fly 4 ever!! posted by Graceann Rumford on May 31, 2000 at 16:09:19:

: I will miss you both You lived life to the fullest Till we meet again may God hold you both in the palm of his hand!!

I will miss you both You lived life to the fullest Till we meet again may God hold you both in the palm of his hand!!

I flew with Montaine late Thursday evening. After the flight, we talked for some time about life being too short and not postponing the things you want to do. Her passion came through with every comment. Hallowed words from a great lady of aviation. She was demanding, tough yet patient and so exciting to fly with. I hung on her every word of encouragement. After every flight Daniel was there for our return, always motivating and coaching. I miss them. A student

I will always remember my safety check ride with Montaine
Montaine had the highest standards and when She told me I did a great job
I felt 10 feet tall! . I will always remember the happy times
training in NY.

you mean much to me dear Montaine and Daniel.
I admire you, saw you dancing in the sky and I knew
it was forever...
ý love you

We will remember..........................

Best Regards,

Witch Squadron
Esquadrilha Bruxa
info.bruxa@tecsat-in.com.br

You were a joy to watch and we will always miss you

In Reply to: Montaine & Daniel posted by Jim and Sue Kissner on May 31, 2000 at 13:37:06:

: two beautiful people taken from this earth too soon, may they fly forever. Deepest sympathy to their families, associates and close friends.

Truly yet another great loss in the airshow family. We are deeply saddened by this tragedy. Montaine and Daniel were wonderful people and will be missed by all of us. Our thoughts and prayers are with all who knew them.

I remember when i wanted to become a Professional Pilot about 5 years ago. I visited the Embry-Riddle Univ., where i saw the Mudry Avition Ad.
After that, the way i felt about flying changed forever. Montaine guided me through my first lessons in aerobatics, experience that i will never forget.
I will always miss Daniel and Montaine...

Feliz vuelo a la eternidad!

Gabriel Rocha
F/O B-737, LanChile

Thank you, Montaine and Daniel, for aerobatic inspiration... it has been a privilege to watch your performances, and an honor to spend a few hours in your company at Mudry Aviation. God speed.

Words cannot express the sense of loss that we feel. Our sincere and deepfelt sympathy goes to the families of Montaine and Daniel. They will be missed. With love and prayers, Jude and Mike Dennis

enjoyed your presence at many air shows,and your great perfomances they will be truly missed. A large hole has been left in future air shows.

FORMATION FLIGHT

All the colors of the horizon melt into the earth,
The mountains illuminated and guard with exhalation,
The sky seems endless, above, beyond, and below,
The earth dances as we soar towards it,
Immortal men, that's who we are,
We have the wings of a gull, the hopes of a
poor man and ther goals of a God,
We form wing to wing, becoming one mind,
anticipating each other's moves,
A feeling of so much closeness, a bond as strong
as the universe,
I'm actually floating, the person behind me
is just as high, I'm so happy,
No other time could be so perfect,
If this moment lives forever, I will live forever....

Love your
daughter, Michelle

Years ago I walked out to the OSH flight line and asked Montaine what was behind this poem that she read in each of their flights. Michelle was a 19 year old student of theirs. She wrote this to her parents shortly before her death in a mid-air. When I returned home today I got out the blue sky print of this poem with the French Connection pictured in flight. It seemed appropropriate to include in this list of memories. Farewell and God bless.

-George Bush

You were one of my favorites. I looked forward to seeing your beautiful formation display.

You made me love aerobatics, although I came only for
spin-training. Your connection is now eternal. The
aerobatic box over Flagler will always be in the
imagination of us pilots passing by. So long...

We will miss our very good friends and her family

I was shocked and saddened to hear of the accident.
Montaine and Daniel will be remembered with fondness and admiration.

My sympathy to their family and friends.

I knew them both since 1983 and was a former student in Poughkeepsie, NY. ( Dutchess County ). The many times that we shared socially and learning aerobatics will never fade! They said some of the nicest comments to me at a CAP-10 rendevous that will be a personal treasure forever. They will always be flying in my heart.

Jim Rossides

I remember the first time I saw the French Connection and I knew then and there that I wanted to be a pilot like you...I still do.

I am saddened by the loss of my friends and mentors. You soar above us all now, in close formation, and still inspire us...

Our loss...God's gain...

To Daniel and Montaine:
You two were always with me from as far back as I can remember. I always loved the time I shared with you, always laughing and joking around. I will treasure those moments forever and never forget you two, for you were my family, my two very special friends.

To Daniel and Montaine:
You two were always with me from as far back as I can remember. I always loved the time I shared with you, always laughing and joking around. I will treasure those moments forever and never forget you two, for you were my family, my two very special friends.

The two of you were my inspiration to fly, and
enjoy life with my with my wife. We will soar with you
some day. Thank you for teaching, loving,
and enjoying life.

Godspeed Montaine and Daniel,
We'll miss you!

Daniel and Montaine...your sudden and tragic departure from this earth will forever leave a deep and everlasting void in my life and I am sure to those of us who knew and loved you both. God take and protect you both from here on...he has two splendid new angels to occupy the heavens with him.

with a broken heart,

Sal Manganaro Newtown, Connecticut friend from the very beginning in 1972.....

Also, from the resting spirit of another friend who knew and loved you...Elsbeth "Elly" Manganaro may you all rest in peace.

Very Sad. Thoughts from us in Australia.

I will never forget my summer of 1977 taking instruction from Montaine and my intro flight with Daniel. They were great performers and teachers as well. They will be missed.

I met you by chance a few years back; in spite of my limited talents you have taught me how to really fly; your and my passion for flying had slowly given way to just friendship and I was looking forward to the time when, retired, you would have had more time for it.

Adieu

Gerard

"La perfection est atteinte non quand il ne reste rien à ajouter, mais quand il ne reste rien à enlever."
-Antoine de Saint-Exupery-

Adieu les Gosses

Good-Bye Dear Friends,Until We Meet Again.

I remember getting sawdust in my eyes, whith Daniel,as we were flying inverted in a newly assembled airplane.

Today my eyes, once again, are filled with tears as
I remember two of the finest people I have had the privilege to know.

Farewell Montaine and Daniel.

Sincères condoléances de la région Parisienne, de la part de Didier et sa famille,un des 2 fils de Christiane Barre née Bouteloup, la "demi-soeur" de Daniel.Nous sommes très attristés par cette fin tragique dans l'exercice de leur Passion.

We will miss seeing you this year at the numerous airshows around the country. We never questioned your first love of flying, of flying together. No matter how many zoom & boom airshow acts came and went we always knew the silky smooth grace of The French Connection was something to wait for and appreciate. Now it is gone. I can assure you this, as I sit at Osh Kosh this year, gazing into the blue sky, I will still see those sleek CAP's twisting and turning in unison like so many times before. Thank You for the Memories, God speed. John 5:24

From one who can only dream of flying - you are giants. we were thrilled for the last 20 years at EAA at Oshkosh at your flawless and graceful performances. Pictures will be treasured. You will be greatly missed not only in the air but also on all of earth. We take way too much for granted until it is gone. Farewell.

My sincere condolences to the French Connection Family and love ones left behind. One of my greatest joys in life was having the brief opportunity to fly with Montaine and telling everyone who would listen about the expereience.
We all were blesed to have known them. Sincerely, Capt. James E. Davis, Jr. USN -RET.

To the Family & Friends of Montaine & Daniel,

How do you express the sympathy and great sadness of such a tragic event? I don't know what else can be said that hasn't been expressed in these pages of condolences.

I had the pleasure of meeting Montaine via email only two weeks ago. I am happy that I had the opportunity to tell them what a great inspiration they were for me. I am sad that the relationship was so short.

To those that knew them best and longest I'm sure you have many fond memories and stories that will last forever.

The airshow is over, the dreams and inspirations that The French Connection created will live forever.

Sincerest sympathies,

Carl

I know you are enjoying your new wings in heaven. You will be missed down here on earth.

Nobody did it better. You have slipped the surly bonds-

Daniel et Montaine: Vous serez ensemble toujours. Merci et au revoir.

Someone already quoted the beautiful poem "High Flight". The line "And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings" seems so apt for Montaine and Daniel. Seeking their autographs after an air show in 1996, I never saw two people happier in their love for each other and their lives. They were as wonderful to meet in person as to see in flight.

I'll always remember Daniel and Montaine as a member of the press who appreciates quality people. I've followed the career of these two since the beginning and I feel a personal loss now especially that they won't be at Our Airshow in Cincinnati August 26th & 27th.

At Oshkosh, they would often sit at the same table with spectators and press alike. I've been honored to have them at my table on many occasions. Oshkosh is very family of which I've been a part for more than 25 years and they since they first started attending. They have gone West now and we'll all see them again when we do the Westward thing.

As President of Air Pix Aviation Photos and as Treasurer of the Lunken Airport Benefits Association I share the loss as much as any who have posted here.

All of you other performers out there please be careful and have a safe summer.

Both of you will be greatly missed.

Un hasta pronto a una pareja singular.........

You were my inspiration, you were my family, you will be missed.

Montaine and Daniel were the stars at our local airshow in Athens, GA last month. They were absolute professionals, completely approachable and freindly to everyone. I've seen them in many occasions and will miss their performances and graciousness.

C'est avec beaucoup d'émotion que je me remémorerai le magnifique ballet aérien tout en douceur tant de fois exécuté et toujours apprécié...

Attendez-moi avec patience - j'arrivais un de ces jours. Preparez pour moi une bonne bouteille, du saucisson, les fromages du Berry, et une bonne salade avec la vinegrette que tu nous as toujours preparee. Daniel - d'abors une petite biere. --Mimie

Montaine and Daniel visited us a couple of times each year, usually between airshows. We always looked so forward to their visits; and the food, drink, laughter, and good conversation. Daniel and I drank beer on the deck; Montaine prepared the salad while she talked with Mimie and the children. Montaine was particularly attentive to Stephanie, her godchild. I will miss Montaine and Daniel very much. --Jim

Quel plaisir vous nous avez donne lors de votre visite a Jackson. William, Susan, Christopher et Garrett ne l'oublierons jamais. Vous etiez un rayon de soleil. Bill a pleure pour la premiere fois depuis longtemps.

As one of their first American friends I can't find words for my feelings. They compensated me for my maintenance at Orange County with aerobatic instruction. I was the winner. Their friendship lasted for all these years. I shall cherish it. As I wrote to Mr. Mudry and his family,"They worked so very hard together--I can't imagine one without the other. Perhaps God felt that way too.

A Daniel et Montaine en courte finale pour Dieu Airport
Roger Constantin

I've always enjoyed the team, especially their grace
and beauty in the sky. Their performances were in such
contrast to the violence of modern aerobatics.

I am saddened by their loss and the loss this brings
to people who love aerobatics.

Mark Flynn

We're jealous of your Flight plan, because it was planned for the Great Lord

Fly in peace !!!!

Huymberto Camilo - Brazil

Daniel & Montaine, you provided us with inspiration as we watched you fly. Your performances were riveting, and totally amazing to us all. The world is a colder place now that you are not here among us, but we know that you'll keep an eye on us all. Blue skies forever, French Connection.

I always enjoyed the precision flying that they did together and
one of my best memories of Oshkosh in the 1980's and 1990's was their
beautiful and graceful flying. That was even more
evident when I was able to see a videotape of their
performance from inside the planes. While other acts
have power and speed, none were more precise and as
graceful in their flying... I can hear the narration
like it was yesterday, speaking of the love of flight.
They will be missed. So sad.

A great loss
My heart is heavy
So long

French Connection,

Terrible news, for those of us who remain to miss them. They were a brilliant,original team, who brought such beauty and skill for us to watch, and
set our standards.

A new adventure for them, with stunning new horizons opening ahead that
none of us have ever seen. What's sorrow for us is joy for them. Not a bad way for life's appearances to work.

These words were written by Richard Bach and they reflect exactly how we feel.

We miss you and will always remember the good times we shared.

Luiz G. Richieri , on behalf of ACRO, The Brazilian Aerobatic Association

So sad to here of this news. They always seemed so happy together and I always enjoyed watching there show.
Will miss them.

So lomg to a dynamic couple who did what they loved and loved what they did. We met at the dinner table on a cruise ship called the Statendam and were immediately enchantedd by the spirit and energy of Daniel and Montaine. We learned tat Daniel liked Mouton Cadet, dancing, fine dining and flying. We also discovered that Montaine loved to tell stories about The French Connection, was thrilled with her 0th birthday gift of the cruise including the luxurious staterom Daniel had booked to ceebrate the occasion.
Mainly we discovered that Daniel and Montaine loved each other and flying above all else.
They climbed to great heights inthis life. Here's hoping they continue to soar eternally.

Fare thee well.

Marilee and Ian

You will be missed. My deepest sympathy to your families and loved ones.

The short time we spent together was truely inspirational and the memories will last with me forever. Thank you for showing us the value of professionalism, dedication and the enjoyment of life. Montaine and Daniel's contribution to aviation will live on through many generations.

My deepest sympathy to your family and close friends.

In Reply to: ADMIRED FROM AFAR posted by DIANE WITTE on June 01, 2000 at 14:34:55:

While we mourn the death of these two outstanding people, we remember the joy they brought to thousands of enthusiasts who came to airshows to see them perform.

A flood of memories came at seeing the headline...
...being spellbound as a youngster watching Montaine and Daniel rehearse their routines in the practice area at Stormville Airport in NY... remembering the story of their birdstrike while in a maneuver, over-under w/Daniel inverted. One had a shattered canopy and was flying blind(can't remember who), and the other talked them out of the position and down to a safe landing...getting their picture and autograph at an airshow...wishing I was old enough to take aerobatic lessons at their flight school in Poughkeepsie, NY...seeing them year after year at Oshkosh and many other shows around the country and always getting a friendly and familiar greeting...enjoying their company and story telling at a Christmas party before they headed for Flagler...
I'll miss you both, but you won't be forgotten, you've left your mark forever...

We will miss them as they were truly great human beings. This makes you take a moment to evaluate what is really important. Gods Speed

They came in the evening, then, and found Jonathan gliding peaceful and alone through his beloved sky. The two gulls that appeared at his wings were pure as starlight, and the glow from them was gentle and
friendly in the high night air. But most lovely of all was the skill with which they flew, their wingtips moving a precise and constant inch from his own. Without a word, Jonathan put them to his test, a test that no gull had ever passed. He twisted his wings, slowed to a single mile per hour above stall. The two radiant birds slowed with him, smoothly, locked in position. They knew about slow flying.
He folded his wings, rolled and dropped in a dive to a hundred ninety miles per hour. They dropped with him, streaking down in flawless formation.
At last he turned that speed straight up into a long vertical slow-roll. They rolled with him, smiling.
He recovered to level flight and was quiet for a time before he spoke. "Very well," he said, "who are you?"
"We're from your Flock, Jonathan. We are your brothers." The words were strong and calm. "We've come to take you higher, to take you home."
"Home I have none. Flock I have none. I am Outcast. And we fly now at the peak of the Great Mountain Wind. Beyond a few hundred feet, I can lift this old body no higher."
"But you can Jonathan. For you have learned. One school is finished, and the time has come for another to begin."
As it had shined across him all his life, so understanding lighted that moment for Jonathan Seagull. They were right. He could fly higher,
and it was time to go home.
He gave one last look across the sky, across that magnificent silver land where he had learned so much.
"I'm ready " he said at last.
And Jonathan Livingston Seagull rose with the two starbright gulls to disappear into a perfect dark sky.

We've always enjoyed and loved to watch your sky dancing. May the Good Lord enjoy your spectacular abilities which He gave you both. We pray for your souls now at rest.

Bernard & Mary

When I walked into your Poughkeepsie office you made
me feel like I walked into a family not a flight school.
You taught for the "Love" of flying and thats what made
you the best of the best. I will alway remember the
lesson I learned. Live life with a Passion. I

Every time I watched the French Connection fly, it was
inspiring. The grace and precision of their flying will
be something that I will always remember. The skies will
be a little emptier without them.

I cant believe it ! i woke up this morning and while i was checking my e-mail from aopa i saw the sad news. i spoke with montaine about two months ago . i want to learn aerobatics soon.she even sent me an autographed picture! what a nice lady she was! im in schock.now i dont know what to do about my aerobatic training.
god bless them both! amen.

I first saw the French Connection shortly after I'd started my own flight training in Rochester, NY. I was awed...inspired...humbled as I watched them perform.

A few short weeks ago (and many years after I'd first seen them perform in Rochester, NY) I saw them perform again at Sun-n-Fun in Lakeland, FL. I now hold my CFI with all the assorted ratings and I was still awed...inspred...and humbled by their performance.

My daughters were with me, and I pointed out Montaine's plane to my six year old daughter, telling her that a girl was flying that plane...her response..."Wow."

And somehow...it fits.
They were an inspiration.
They'll both be missed.

I joined the Navy in 1978 to learn to fly. I went to as many arirshows as possible. I watched as many pilots wrenched their aircraft through the sky and brutally forced it to do wondourous things. You show did not have the brute force... It had beauty, elegance,style, and grace. It flowed! I loved it... I will miss it, and I regret my son will never have seen it. Farewell and may you ever soar on Angels Wings!

I am saddened to hear of the passing of Daniel and Montaine. I flew down to Sun N' Fun and saw them for the first time last April. I was very much inspired to further my pilot skills. Aviation has suffered a great loss.
Dan Peterson
Tallahassee

To Daniel and Montaine, Thank you for all your proformances and inspiration. My 80 yr old father and I saw you many times and admired your grace and precision. When I fly tonight I will say a prayer at altitude for you...

I earned my tailwheel endorsement at your school.

Each of you were fine examples of independance and grace.

May the sky where you are always be clear.

I was consistently awed by the precision and beauty of the
the flying of Daniel and Montaine. Thanks for the
inspiration and memories. They loved to fly and it
showed in their performances. My sympathies to
family and friends.

Larry Toto

What if we had never known them!

Je pleure mes héros d'enfance ainsi que des amis,
ils m'ont donné l'amour des avions et plus
particulierement des CAP10, leurs ailes seront toujours
dans ma tete et dans mes reves.
Votre amour fut sans nuage et se sentait dans vos
acrobaties.
Vous vivez dans mon coeur à jamais.
Olivier Kalemkarian

My kids grew up with your wonderful personalities, we always looked forward to your French lessons! Thanks for all the memories, you will be missed. Nancy, Kelley & Jessie

Our hearts are sad. The world will no longer be inspired
by your grace and beauty. No more will my wife and
I hold hands and watch you dance in the sky. No more
will we be reminded by your synchronized performance
how close the two of us are as we felt you also must
be.

While these moments will not be repeated. They will
be with us in our hearts. For that we say "Thank you."

We were saddened to hear about the tragic accident. We have watched with amazement the French Connection's outstanding performances over the past 15 years at
Oshkosh. We will miss seeing them, but they will always
be remembered.

With deepest sympathy,

Tim Harris / Tom Harris

You will never be forgotten. Blue skies always

I remember the first time saw them perform - with my wife at the Cleveland airshow years ago. I had a migraine and was laying on the grass, unable to enjoyt the airshow, but when the French Connection was up, my wife was so amazed that she helped me sit up and the grace and beauty of the performance actually made me feel better. I just recently earned my pilot's license, and I believe that their act was a least part of my inspiration - and because my wife enjoyed them so much, it helped get her interested in my flying. They will be sorely missed...

Whenever or wherever their is an air show, your presence will forever be felt. You gave so much to the sport; the beauty, the grace, the precision of your flying, the smiles, the stories, the friendliness of your personalities. Always time for your admirers. I will miss seeing you at Oshkosh this year, but I know you will be there in spirit.

Thanks especially Daniel for the stories of your time spent training in Texas. They were always humorous and historically informative.

We will miss you always.

We who have experienced the beauty of your flying shall know that you will forever be flying through the Heavens above us. As we look to the beauty of the stars above, we shall remember you.

I never met or saw Montaine or Daniel perform but from
what I've read, they were very talented and wonderful
people and I feel as though I already know them. It's
so sad to see such gifted people go when they still had
so much to offer. They touched many lives and will be missed immensely.

We will miss you. Blue skies forever

Your beautiful souls and amazing flying will be missed. You have put the grace of flying into a classic light. We will miss you. You have new wings now - may you grace the heavens with your flying.

BOS AIR

May GOD be with you, thanks for the friendship,and great entertainment

The French Connection – Daniel and Montaine...

We all stared in awe as your aerial ballet of grace
and synchronicity delighted our eyes and senses.

Your skills played the controls like a musical instrument
that had the sweetness of a fine violin and the impact of a symphony.

Each year we looked forward to your performance with the
same eagerness and excitement of the first time nearly 25 years ago.

The many lives that you touched are a testament to your persons
and your flying talents. You made the connection with the people.

Your thousands of fans will miss your dazzling airshows
and your friends and family will miss your warm presence.

Thanks for making the world more interesting and fun.
We will miss seeing you each year at Oshkosh,
but we will never forget you.

Lou and Lorraine Hathaway
EAA friends

The sky will be not as blue and much more empty without the French Connection. Wonderful pilots and even finer indviduals.

Always in our hearts and memories,

John & Kris

When Mudry was based at Dutchess County NY over 10 years ago my brother and I flew over to try and get a lesson from Montaine. When we were downwind we heard her getting permission to take off on her way to Montreal, so we missed her.
When I later moved to Miami( seeing them perform many times at the Miami airshow) I would occasionally pass by the Flagler County airport (off I95) on my way to Pittsburgh, PA. Just last February while on a trip I saw the exit for Bunnel,Fla and I really had to fight the urge to go over there due to time constraints.
So, now any chance of meeting them are over.
I hope their friends and family know how highly regarded they are, and how so many pilots were in awe of their artistic approach to aerobatics.
They will be missed..........

After working with the Dayton show for over 15 years now, I've had the pleasure to meet so many great folks in this business. Daniel and Montaine represent two of the finest professionals we had the pleasure to host from time to time. Their memory lives on with all of us...they will be missed.

Montaine & Daniel-Ave atque vale

How empty the EAA Wisconsin sky will look.

Daniel and Montaine gave my son so much... the meaning of being a man, sense of accomplishment, depth of responsibility... nuances of being I was unable to promote for my son. Memories will always be treasured my friends. The difference of your presence in Daniel's life is of life-long impact. Bless you on your newest journey.

Daniel & Montaine,

I am greatly saddened by the news. Flying CAP-10s with you at Daniel Webster College in 1983-85 made me a better pilot, and I'll be for-ever grateful to you both. You are both aviation legends and pioneers in team aerobatics. You'll be greatly missed.

Michael

We will miss you

In Reply to: Memories forever flying high posted by John Merritt on June 02, 2000 at 11:42:33:

Among the super-stars that graced our community. Daniel, ever a gentleman, socialized while Montaine made sure she had her computer connected. My daughters saw in Montaine (and Wagstaff, Osterud, et.al.) that women have no limits if they set their sight to the sky.

Thank God for the fine people behind those remarkable performances. My tears, prayers and appreciation can not even begin to fill our loss.

Please convay my deepest sympathy. Take comfort in the fact they died doing what they enjoyed doing.

I've seen many routines--some of the world's best. Yours was the only show that brought me real tears.

I weep them again.

ej

God Gave Them Wings of EAGLES Now!!

This is another message to Daniel and Montaine from a wonderful fan, Nickolas Laurin in Schenectady, New York. I have two video tapes of an airshow in 1990 here in Schenectady of Daniel and Montaine performing for all of the great fans in Schenectady, and they will forever be lived in our hearts, not just in Schenectady, but, all over the world.

P.S. Daniel and Montaine we love you and miss you and please fly over Schenectady in spirit. Thank you and God Bless you great people and I will cherish my home video of the airshow with you on it here in Schenectady, New York.

We've had many good times together and will miss you terribly. We feel lucky to have had such good friends. It's been good to know you.

I will always cherish those moments spent watching your performance. My prayer for you today is that God will bring your souls to a peaceful rest in Heaven.

I CRIED WHEN I READ OF THE ACCIDENT. THE TWO OF YOU MADE MY LIFE MORE FULL EACH TIME I SAW YOUR SHOW. TO ME, IT WAS THE EPITOME OF LOVE IN MOTION. THANK YOU FOR YEARS OF BEAUTIFUL LOVE AND ROMANCE OF FLYING. GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILIES IN THE YEARS AHEAD. MAY THEY KNOW WITH ABSOLUTE CERTAINTY THAT YOU WERE HEROS IN MY LIFE. THANK YOU FOREVER. JOHN BAIRD FOREE, D.V.M.
NEW CASTLE, KENTUCKY

Words cannot express my sadness that you are now soaring beyond the blue horizon. We shall always
remember the way you expressed your love of flying with your aerial artistry. No one has ever
given a better interpretation of the German word
"KUNSTFLUG" as you have with your aerial symphony.
You will be missed, Siggy.

It was only a few weeks ago that Montaine went out of her way to offer some information to me thru the internet.
A further example of the giving and sharing they were known, and so well loved, for.
You will be missed.
Best wishes to the families of these two eternal souls.
Mike Rieker
St Petersburg, FL

The most enjoyed flight memories I have is learning to fly airobatics in the CAP 10. Both Daniel and Montaine took the most professional approach to flight training, while exhibiting great enthusiam for the job. I got my Int'l Airobatic Rating with them, which I cherish more than my Com/Instr. It was a terrific time when they were here at Sky Acres Airport, NY. I will vividly remember them.

Daniel and Montaine I love so much and will miss them more than words can say. Be happy together in the hereafter.

montaine and daniel, your show was incredible, every time i saw it i was amazed even more than the time before. during your performances, i listened to the people around me express their awe and admiration of your flying, and it made me so proud to know you and to be a part of your lives. your passion for flying was an inspiration. montaine, i couldn't have asked for a better godmother. you are both in my thoughts and prayers, bonne chance on your journey out.
xo,
stephanie

Oshkosh will never be the same without them. My family and I have enjoyed their flawless performances for several decades. God Bless these wonderful people and their family and friends.

In Reply to: Daniel and Montaine posted by Siegfried Feuersanger on June 02, 2000 at 19:45:03:

: Words cannot express my sadness that you are now soaring beyond the blue horizon. We shall always
: remember the way you expressed your love of flying with your aerial artistry. No one has ever
: given a better interpretation of the German word
: "KUNSTFLUG" as you have with your aerial symphony.
: You will be missed, Siggy.

aviation will miss you two

rudy

Chers Daniel et Montaine: Merci de m’avoir appris la voltige et transmis votre passion. Les moments extraordinaires de Poughkeepsie, puis nos entrevues à diverses rencontres aériennes ne seront pas oubliés. Carlo

Nous nous unisons à la grande famille des pilotes pour vous dire au revoir.Votre départ si brutal provoque une grande tristesse chez tes amis de promo 53G et anciens pilotes de chasse.Nous présentons nos très sincères condoléances à vos proches.
Au revoir Amis.

In Reply to: to montaine and daniel posted by Stephanie Marum on June 02, 2000 at 22:25:17:

: montaine and daniel, your show was incredible, every time i saw it i was amazed even more than the time before. during your performances, i listened to the people around me express their awe and admiration of your flying, and it made me so proud to know you and to be a part of your lives. your passion for flying was an inspiration. montaine, i couldn't have asked for a better godmother. you are both in my thoughts and prayers, bonne chance on your journey out.
: xo,
: stephanie

My first experience of The French Connection was in the early 80's at the annual Sussex Co. Airshow. I had just begun flying. This extraordinary team left an outstanding impression. While all the other performances were on-the-edge breathtaking, theirs was a routine perfectly choreographed like a ballet...so flowing!! From a classically - trained professional musician, I "felt" the articulation-the phrasing and the dynamics- as if they were performing like musicians so in tune with eachother.
I will miss their unique class act.
May you two soar as one forever...
Peace to all who mourn you,
Susan

May your skiies be sunny and blue and your winds be calm forever. We will all miss you. The Wilson's

Last year when Daniel was passing through Ohio, they spent a night @ 4I3 [Mt.Vernon, OH] He & I talked for an hour or so about Primary USAF Pilot training that we went through together. He knew all the French Cadets in 54-G that were my friends & filled in the years for me. He was truly a GREAT pilot and a man!
A tragic loss for us all...

I didn't know you personally, but what a great loss. I will truly miss your performances at EAA. I know you are forever soaring with the eagles and every time I observe them I will think of you and your beautiful routine.

I was an 11yr old boy in NY when I first saw them perform at Duchess Cty Airport. I was awed by their skill and grace and still cherish their autographed photo post card. I went on to pursue a military aviation career. At 38 and a flying LtCol in the USAF, I owe a great debt to their inspiration to keep reaching for the sky. God bless and keep you both.
Lou "Capo" Caporicci

I flew with you in Poughkeepsie. Now that you are gone
my family and I will fly with you now in our hearts.

We will never forget you - ever!

In Reply to: Farewell Forever posted by The Podzielinski Family on June 02, 2000 at 22:25:39:

Thank you for the wonderful moments. You were an inspiration for many of us and we will never forget you.

Aviation is without doubt crying today!

Au Revoir Daniel et Montaine!

may the good lord take you both into his hands and guide you into eternal flight
with the great angels. your entertainment will be sadly missed dave zemer

Thank you for the wonderful moments. You were an inspiration for many of us.

Aviation is without doubt crying today!

Au Revoir Daniel et Montaine.

I am greatly saddend to hear of your loss and the loss to aviation enthusiasts everywhere. I have etched in my memory forever the grace and beauty of their performances at Osh Kosh and their radiant, smiling post performance convertible rides, being applauded by their many fans and admirers. I will miss them greatly. Au revoir.

The French Connection was the finest dual aerobatic
team I Have had the pleasure to observe. Their trips
to the Wings over Houston Airship were always received
with a feeling that not only were we to see two of the
greatest pilots perform for us but, we would also have
the opportunity to visit with some very special friends
Montaine & Daniel were two of the finest and
friendliest people I have ever nad the pleasure and
privilege to meet. We will miss them.
Sam Poss

Forever in Blue Skies they Dance

Comme pilote de voltige amateur je mesure les risques du metier et c'est toujours avec une certaine tristesse que j'apprends differents accidents dans l'aviation.

I am deeply saddened by the news of the loss to family, friends and the general aviation community of Daniel and Montaine, who I've always thought of as "The Skydancers".

Their fluidity aloft has always been an inducement and inspiration to we poor hacks who struggled with our chandelles.

In the words of Steve Pennypacker(this site 5/28/00);
"Fly safe, folks. The laws of physics are unforgiving".

May we all meet again at the " Great Oshkosh in the Sky"

JH

I was deeply saddened by the news of your passing, but I wanted you to know that your lives will always be a part of mine. I am grateful to you both for the knowledge that I have the privilege of being able to say that I learned from you.

Goodbye until next time,
Richard O

To Daniel and Montaine,
You will forever remain in our hearts and thoughts as you go forward into eternity in freedom, together-
as always. May you enjoy clear skies and no boundaries.
This is not good bye but just adieu until we are reunited in our friendship on the other side of the great divide. We are sure He has a great use for people who know how to love, live and push the boundaries with courage, compassion and joy.
Our condolences to all who feel this loss, may you take solace in knowing they are together in a greater freedom than they have ever known.

In Reply to: Always posted by Pierre and Jeanne Matisse on June 03, 2000 at 20:13:16:

L'Aéro-club de Saintes (France) tient a faire parvenir ses condoléances à la famille des deux pilotes tragiquement disparus...

The AirClub of Saintes (France) want to send its condolence to the family of the two pilots tragically departed...

The loss of Daniel and Montaine is a sad one to the aviation community. I had the opporunity to see the team twice, and always pointed out their awe-inspiring ability to my friends and family. I had the honor of meeting Daniel in Frederick, Maryland, and I can truly say he is one of the finest people I have ever met. I have never witnessed a more compassionate act and true demonstration of love for the sport of aviation. For this, I can definately say that Daniel and Montaine, The French Connection, was the best aerobatic team I have ever had the pleasure of witnessing. Their presence is truly missed.

tears from san diego from the nicest line man on earth

My son, Rich, had just flown with Montaine the Sunday before the accident. She, Daniel, and their family will be in our prayers. They leave a legacy of inspiring performances which have thrilled and entertained audiences around the world. I'm sure that I echo thousands of condolences from adoring fans when I say that they will be missed, not only for their airshow perfection, but for their loving and caring attitude towards the people with whom they came in contact.

I will never forget the gentle eyes and demeanor of Montaine as she scanned the low ceiling of gray outside looking for a break in the weather. She and Daniel we traveling back to Florida after a performance and got fogged in at the OSU Airport in Columbus, Ohio. They expected to fly straight through and were unprepared for a stay. I fed them both and Montaine convinced me I needed to let the two of them teach me how to "Roll zee plane". I never got the opportunity to take them up on their offer....and now fate has taken that opportunity along with these extraordinary and irreplaceable aviators. I will never forget them or their wonderful talents. They will be missed. God bless them both.

To die is something we all well do but to live as you have lived is a blessing , indeed to all who knew you. Rest in Gods Hands.

A chaque séjour aux usa j'etais fier d'ecouter les eloges vous concernant "French Connection". Je n'ai qu'un regret c'est de n'avoir pas eu la joie de vous voir évoluer unis par cette même passion dont l'ultime consecration fut en ce sombre samedi de mai Au Revoir!
Michel Murian 54G

You were love

In Reply to: condolences posted by george godin on June 04, 2000 at 06:53:13:

Without talking face to face last 6 months we had
a good contact to do something else for the people
affected by the earthquake but not finished. In any
case it is pleasure for us to say that they were
our good friends.

We will forever more miss your presence at EAA Air Venture OSH and the beautiful aerial ballet that was uniquely yours. May you now fly through eternity in peace.

Michelle A. Wrobleski
FAA Air Traffice Controller (16 yrs. OSH EAA Airshow)
Flight Instructor

William E. Wrobleski
F/O BAe 146, United Express

In Reply to: Farewell by Michelle A. Wrobleski on June 04, 2000 at 09:59:01:

I will miss you thank you for your friendship.
Jim
: We will forever more miss your presence at EAA Air Venture OSH and the beautiful aerial ballet that was uniquely yours. May you now fly through eternity in peace.

: Michelle A. Wrobleski
: FAA Air Traffice Controller (16 yrs. OSH EAA Airshow)
: Flight Instructor

: William E. Wrobleski
: F/O BAe 146, United Express

In Reply to: Farewell posted by Michelle A. Wrobleski on June 04, 2000 at 09:59:01:

Joe asked me to sign for him as he does not have a computer. We both loved Daniel and Montaine
Jim Rahm for Joe Morina
: We will forever more miss your presence at EAA Air Venture OSH and the beautiful aerial ballet that was uniquely yours. May you now fly through eternity in peace.

: Michelle A. Wrobleski
: FAA Air Traffice Controller (16 yrs. OSH EAA Airshow)
: Flight Instructor

: William E. Wrobleski
: F/O BAe 146, United Express

In Reply to: Farewell posted by Michelle A. Wrobleski on June 04, 2000 at 09:59:01:

Sue asked if I would sign for her Sue always love to see her frends Danny & Montaine stop at her coffee shops at Orange County & Kolbelt NY.
Jim Rahm for Sue Trvis
: We will forever more miss your presence at EAA Air Venture OSH and the beautiful aerial ballet that was uniquely yours. May you now fly through eternity in peace.

: Michelle A. Wrobleski
: FAA Air Traffice Controller (16 yrs. OSH EAA Airshow)
: Flight Instructor

: William E. Wrobleski
: F/O BAe 146, United Express

When you touch the face of God, remember us who are not with you. We will remember you.

Daniel and Montaine were truly magnificent to watch.

My wife and I saw them at Oshkosh and at Frederick (FDK)
airport many times.

We are very sorry for their untimely departure.

Please accept our heartfelt condolances.

Theodor & Felicidad Stathis
Mount Airy, MD USA

Sadly, we'll never see that again

The high point of my fledgling aerobatic life was having Daniel watch me one day and tell me I flew well. I can't believe they are now gone. But legends do live forever.

In Reply to: Farewell posted by Michelle A. Wrobleski on June 04, 2000 at 09:59:01:

We will miss your.

La grande famille de l ' Aviation est en deuil et la France a perdu ses Ambassadeurs.

It makes me very sad when I heard that Daniel and Montaine had
a crash and died. Last year and the year befor they gave my frends
and me a very good time during our aerobatic traning week. I will
miss them and there is no way to returne this year or any time.
Find your peace
Markus

In Reply to: awake from a dream posted by Eiglsperger Markus on June 04, 2000 at 18:18:28:

Sympathy to the friends and family of Daniel & Montaine.

Our family enjoyed their quiet grace, their peaceful flights, and the warmth they expressed to our children, each and every time we met.

God Be With You. Love & Prayers To Daniel & Montaine, Now & When We Meet Again.

I followed Montaine and Daniel for over 10 years. All those years I tried to find some way to train with them in their aerobatic school. Last year I met Daniel and Montaine at the Morris, Illinois airshow, and they even agreed to have their picture taken with me. Better yet, Montaine expected me to come to Flagler to fly with her. In January I accomplished my dream. I flew the CAP10 with Montaine for spin training. What an experience! She corrected a fundamental error in my recovery technique. She demonstrated inverted flight and we did some of that. Whoa! The thing I remember most was that at the end of the training on the way back to Flagler, she asked if I want to see a hammerhead? Oh my! I wanted to sit back and watch, but the teacher made me stay on the controls with her. Up, up we went, so gracefully, so smoothly, so effortlessly. And then we were pointed down, such exhilaration. I will never forget that day. I will never forget Montaine.

We will miss their smiling faces, chatter and most of all their love of flying...They were unique, graceful..May they soar forever..It was a privilege to have known and loved them......

In Reply to: YOU WERE MY FAVORITE HARMONY posted by JOHN BAIRD FOREE, D.V.M. on June 02, 2000 at 18:47:50:

Living in Oshkosh, many performances have become "old hat"... but never
Daniel and Montaine: every one of their performances, every flyin, every year
brought me tears of joy. So also their loss brought tears of anguish. For
me they will always epitomize the love of flying, the love shared by two people,
and the unending beauty of both. The simultaneous hammerhead turn always my
heart stop, but for me it only happened momentarily. Thank you, Daniel & Montaine,
for giving your hearts that all of us talented might know your joy.

Poetry in flight

In Reply to: Montaine & Daniel posted by Joe Sullivan on June 04, 2000 at 22:24:31:

In Reply to: What happened posted by Bill Tarr on June 03, 2000 at 17:26:21:

: I just surfed in.What the hell happened?

You were two very gracious people..... The absolute very best at what you did.... truly remarkable aviators.... Thanks for the memories...... Oshkosh will never be the same again.......

Thanks for being a true inspiration to a kid with a dream. Blue skies forever, Daniel and Montaine.

Few in the world like you. I'm heart broken to see you go. I'll always remember.

Steve

Two Smiling Faces which will not be forgotten, two happy talented people we must never forget. Farwell.

WITH THE GRACE OF BIRD'S IN FLIGHT - REST IN PEACE

We met working on my seawind and talked every airshow. I will miss that.Goodbye.

In Reply to: God bless Montaine & Daniel posted by Jean & Dick Dieter on June 04, 2000 at 20:04:50:

Montaine and Daniel have many friends in Brazil. We all are not beliving that both died. We have had the previlege to have them perfotming their show 3 times and we where planning to have them another time in october 2000.

So many times we met them at Oshkosh. From now , EAA meting will not be the same for us, Montaine and Daniel's friends.

In Reply to: Montaine and Daniel posted by Jim Collins on June 05, 2000 at 07:25:32:

I was shocked to hear about this tragety...
I hope that they are looking over my shoulder in my own airplane cockpit
and I will miss them forever. I loved them very much.

I had the honor and pleasure to meet Daniel and
Montaine several times when they came to Oklahoma City.

I remember them as a couple whom were friendly to all,
brought a touch of class to the industry and were a
joy to watch.

May they enjoy flight without wings, may they fly free!

Nous avons avons appris avec tristesse la disparition de notre cousin Daniel et de sa femme Montaine. Daniel était notre "cousin d'Amérique".Ils représentaient à eux deux ,notre famille dans ce pays mythique. Nous étions fiers lorsque nous évoquions leurs aventures américaines. Ils sont partis en pratiquant leur passion.

Adieu Daniel, adieu Montaine.

Vous resterez dans nos coeurs à tout jamais...

Suite à cette douloureuse perte qu'a subit toute la famille
de l'aviation, je présente mes condolèances à tout le monde
qui a connu Montaine et Daniel.
They will be missed.

Along with Claude Chanclu, Montaine and Daniel taught me -- the French way -- everything I know about precision aerobatics and it has been a rare privilege to learn from their vast experience. Their words of caution and advice still resonate in my head every time I fly!
Montaine and Daniel were inseparable! They loved and respected each other, they flew together the way they lived together, so close! They met death together, gracefully, precisely and close. They died doing what they loved best. We should all be so lucky as our time will eventually come.
"Quand le rire s'arrete, le silence s'installe." Our sincere condolences to their families.

No bird can fly forever, eventually all wings giveway,
so one day we'll takeoff to where we can't file an ETA.
If Hell is below us and Heaven is on high, I'm certain that we all agree, A Pilot belongs in the Sky!

Brievement rencontrés à Oskosh lors d'une interview pour un documentaire pour la Télévision de Radio Canada.
Je garde le souvenir d'un couple enthousiaste qui vivait bien sa passion. Adieu les amis que Dieu vous garde une belle place dans ce ciel qui vous appartenait déjà.

Anyone flying formation on a daily basis knows the FRENCH CONNECTION defined the precision that can be attained. Met and watched them many times and was always amazed.

They will be missed and remembered by very many.

Maj Dave "Leather" Draper
Safety Oficer
104 FS MDANG
A-10 Close Air Support

On behalf of the entire Sun 'n Fun community, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and many friends of Montaine and Daniele. The French Connection had performed at Sun 'n Fun for many years, thrilling tens of thousands of guests with their aerial ballet. Like many others, we feel as thought Montaine and Daniele were members of our family. They will surely be missed . . . and always remembered.

I had many areobatic instructors but none made it more fun than Daniel did. I recieved 38 hours in the Cap 10's and I will always remember Daniels'
enthusiasm,his
laughter and his zest for life. Chuck and Debbie Raymond

On behalf of friends, members and volunteers at the National Warplane Museum, our heartfelt sympathies.

I work Warbirds security at the EAA AirVenture at Oshkosh. Every year Daniel and Montaine would come to the North end of the field to drop off their parachutes to be repacked by the person who comes every year to do repacks for the Warbirds and others. I have met more than my share of famous people, aviators and other kinds of stars, and Daniel and Montaine were two of the nicest people you would ever meet. Some folks think that because they are famous the world owes them special treatment regardless of how they behave, others understand that the respect shown famous people is continually earned by constant impeccable behavior. Daniel and Montaine were both the second and best kind. I will miss them very much.

In Reply to: Artists in the Sky posted by Susan Loricchio on June 03, 2000 at 01:34:11:

: My first experience of The French Connection was in the early 80's at the annual Sussex Co. Airshow. I had just begun flying. This extraordinary team left an outstanding impression. While all the other performances were on-the-edge breathtaking, theirs was a routine perfectly choreographed like a ballet...so flowing!! From a classically - trained professional musician, I "felt" the articulation-the phrasing and the dynamics- as if they were performing like musicians so in tune with eachother.
: I will miss their unique class act.
: May you two soar as one forever...
: Peace to all who mourn you,
: Susan
Susan,
Like you, we first met Daniel and Montaine at a local air show a few years ago. Pierre had been flying for many years and seen many shows but as an artist they captured his imagination and for me it was like seeing a classical ballet performed by the best company and orchestra. Your description so touched our hearts that we wanted to respond.
We became fast friends and while time did not allow for many rendezvous's, the joy and happiness we shared in converations about flight, love, music, and adventure are memories which will always remain in our hearts forever.
I remember one time a few years ago at Mudry a near tragic accident at the field when a plane pulling a banner crashed just as we were arriving to go to lunch with Daniel and Montaine. After lunch Daniel and Pierre had migrated towards the hangars leaving Montaine and I in the office chatting. Somehow the discussion got around to how happy we all were and how much we loved our men. We both agreed that if God were to take one of us first it should be the boys because somehow women survive alone better than men. I told her that I would selfishly prefer that Pierre should go from my arms straight into God's until we could be reunited, rather than to ever be alone here again, as when I first met him. She agreed that she wanted to always take care of Daniel until he wennt to God, but we both knew that we never wanted this seperation time, not for one moment.
Then we giggled like school girls and decided that if we could choose we would die either in the sky together during and inverted maneuver or in bed in the arms of our flyboys, and of course after...
When the boys came back to join us they found us still laughing and giggling but we never did tell them what about. At least I never told Pierre until last evening when we were reminiscing.
Daniel and Montaine were, and always will be together and remembering that conversation makes the seperation from these dear friends acceptable to us. By sharing this I hope it will help others as well.

the world lost a nice people

Dear Montaine et Daniel,
you have been my inspiration since I have met you a few years ago. I will never forget the determination and professionalism you teached me, it ispired and followed me since. I will always carry you in my heart !!!!

Un saluto di cuore

Oliver

No words could ever express the loss we feel from all of your friends at Champion Aviation.We have loved your spirit and showmanship for so many years.We will truly miss you but we know your in Gods hands now and what better place could we be. May God comfort your loved ones and family. Bill Austin

Reading the post 'Artists in the Sky' reminded Pierre and I of when we first met Daniel and Montaine. It was at an air show, of course. Pierre has been a private pilot for many years and I love flying. As an artist Pierre was drawn to their formations and the beauty of their sky choreography. For me it was like seeing one of the great classical ballets performed by a world class company and orchestra. They were artists and therefore kindred spirits.
We became fast friends sharing France, Art, and the Air. Our schedules didn't allow for many rendezvous's but whenever possible we got together with lively discussions and lots of story -telling about love, life, art, flying and adventures.
I remember vividly one time a few years ago when there was a near tragedy. A plane pulling a banner crashed on take off at the airport just as we were arriving at Mudry for lunch and a visit.
After lunch, Daniel and Pierre migrated towards the hangar leaving Montaine and I chatting away in the office.
At first the conversation centered around schedules and activities and then, of course, settled on one of our favorite subjects- the men we love.
We both agreed that women do better in general than men alone after the loss of a spouse. I confided to Montaine that I selfishly wanted Pierre to go straight into the arms of God when he left me until we could be reunited. I never wanted him to be alone again as he was when we first met. She said she wanted to take care of Daniel the same way, never leaving him behind.
The conversation took a decidedly upward swing when we agreed that if we had a choice we would die together in the sky during an inverted maneuver or in bed in the arms of our flyboys, after...(well I leave that to your imagination!)
We were still giggling like teenage girls when the boys returned. We refused to tell them why- but with a promise they would benefit from our conversation we turned to other topics.
Last evening I told Pierre about this for the first time as we reminisced about our friends.
Then Pierre reminded me of their genuine interest and support of our activities with ill and handicapped children. He reminded me that this was the day they told us about their little student from western Florida who was handicapped and such an inspiration. They believed in the infinite spirit of life- they lived it.
Now, Daniel and Montaine will always be together. These memories make this seperation more acceptable to us and we share them in hopes that it may help and encourage others.

Daniel, I never tired of watching your expressions
while Montaine was talking. Montaine, I never tired
of hearing you talk about any subject in the world.
That is because you put as much energy into presenting
your story as you did in your flying. I can only hope
that I have learned to put as much energy into living
as you two did. I miss you so much already.

David & Jill Mann
Racine, Wisconsin

I have watched the sky for hours uncounted and followed it, and crossed horizons with it, and still have not begun to tire. The ever-changing, fascinating sky. The airplane, of course is the key.
Richard Bach, Biplane

The highlight of my Oshkosh trips was to watch their perfect routine. Thanks for the memories!!

A GREAT LOSS DEALT TO THE AVIATION FAMILY.

Go on flying with your ownn wings.Forever.

Even though we only spoke a few times, you touched our lives more than you will ever know. Your romance in the skies, your continual smiles, and your superb aerobatics will always be remembered. Your flying wqas indeed as much poetry as the verse which Montaine read during your performances - and will forever echo in our lives as atribute to your love for eachother and your love of flying. Oshkosh won't be the same without you. You are now together in perfect spiritual formation, dancing in the clouds. All our love.

Although we never met,
As I would lie in the Oshkosh grass to totally
absorb your flawless aviating......
for that moment in time, we three, shared the same soul.

Tailwinds forever, Daniel & Montaine

Two beautiful souls-Gone West, sorely missed.

At our evening church service Sunday night I played Hymn to Joy on the
piano during the offertory as a small little tribute to some huge airshow
performers. I can never hear that song and not picture Daniel
and Montaine cutting thru the sky with the precision of ballet dancers
or figure skating couples.

Many years ago at a small airshow in Ohio I was checking the weather
upon heading out myself that morning as were the French Connection.
After getting off the phone and taking notes Montaine asked ME what
Flight Service had to say. Me ??? Real people. Good people.
Hopefully they trusted in Christ as their hope of eternal life and
for the complete forgiveness of our faults and shortcomings.
If so, I look forward to meeting them again- forever !

God Bless,
Mike Cuy
Cleveland, Ohio

Goobye my friends!

I wrote this poem shortly after Charlie Hillard went west. Daniel and Montaine were Heroes of mine too so it applies here as well. Good bye my friends.

Hereos don't come easily, they don't happen every day
They're molded from a normal sole who is special in some way
They don't try to be a hero, it just happens that they are
You look up to them and see them as a brightly shining star

I've had my share of heroes and I'm sure that you do too
And when you lose one it hurts so bad you just don't know what to do
Eventually you come to grips with the feelings that you have
And look back at their life and cherish all the impact they have had

So remember them for their spirit and for how they lived life too
Remember them for their love and warmth and for being there for you
You see, Heroes don't come easily, they don't happen every day
So when you lose one it's OK to cry and talk to them when you pray

Gods speed.

In Reply to: We will miss them at Sussex Airport ! They were the best posted by Joe DuPont on May 29, 2000 at 00:13:46:

My father took me to the first of many airshows at Sussex years ago. He and I would attend annually and he would recite the poem by John Gillespie Magee, Jr. along with Montaine. Dad always carried a copy of this poem with him in his wallet.

The French Connection's performance made quite an impression on me. However, I think I was more impressed by Maontaine and Daniel as people, not just as performers. After they had finished their performance, they would come over to the edge of "Airshow Center" and were always willing to spend time with their fans.

Unfortunately, my father passed away in 1998, only a few days before our annual trip to Sussex. Perhaps he will once again meet up with them at "Airshow Center."

The "Best Little Airshow in NJ" just won't be the same without the French Connection.

We have all been touched by your spirit & saddned by your untimely death.
May God Bless you both...

Montaine and Daniel,
We became buddies shortly after we had arrived in the New World, at approximately the same time. We stayed in touch through the years despite your move from Poughkeepsie to Florida and ours from New York to Virginia. Your friendship and your talent is sorely missed. Marc and Danielle

In Reply to: DANIEL AND MONTAINE posted by STEVE CLEGG DIXIE WALKER on May 30, 2000 at 18:18:34:

: DANIEL AND MONTAINE, you will be missed, godspeed and good tailwinds.
It was my pleasure to have talked to both of you at the Sun'N Fun Performers tent over several years. You will be remembered in my prayers-Bon Voyage.

have gathered on high. The attraction they watch is the same as here on Earth. Their oohs and aahs are heard on the winds. The French Connection Flies on in Heaven.

For the repose fo the soles of Montaine and Daniel Oh my Jesus, forgive us our sins and save us from the fires of hell and lead all soles to heven especially those of most need of thy mercy.

May God be with the ones left behind and the sorrow and grief turned to joy and loving laughter each time their lives are thought of. Good luck dear friends as you go on your new adventure. /\/\ike

Thanks for the memories...Larry and Helen

I first saw Daniel and Montaine at the first airshow I attended at the Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton Airport (now Lehigh Valley International Airport) in the late 1970's. I went with my father, and our enjoyment of the excellence of their precision flying (along with that of the other aerobatic acts) began a long-time tradition of attending airshows. Almost 25 years later, my father and I still enjoy airshows. We just heard of the tragic demise of Daniel and Montaine today, and could hardly believe it was true! We were so saddened by the news. We will very much miss their lovely aerobatic ballet, especially as we plan our trip to our first airshow of the summer at Avoca this weekend. The only redeeming thoughts I can offer to all who share this sorrow is that Daniel and Montaine died doing something they really loved to do, and something they did so very well.

I missed you when you left Poughkeepsie ,but
still watched for you at shows.What an inspiration for
all of us pilots.we will remember you in our prayers!!

AAHHHH, THE HELIGOIN CIRCLE,THE MIRROR IMAGE, CANOPY TO CANOPY..THE FIRST TIME I SAW DANIEL AND MONTAINE DO THEY'RE AEROBATIC ROUTINE I WAS IN AWE.1982 AT THE SUSSEX AIR SHOW IN NEW JERSEY. A DAY I WILL NEVER FORGET.THERE WILL BE A GREAT VOID AT THAT SHOW THIS YEAR.MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO THEM AND THEY'RE FAMILY MEMBERS..ETERNAL FLYING TO TWO OF THE BEST PILOTS EVER TO TAKE TO THE SKIES... r.i.p

Ce n'est que maintenant que je peux regarder la realite en face: je ne vous verrai plus au prochain Show. Plus de petite biere a la fin du spectacle, et plus de steack frites pour Daniel.

Je ne suis sans doute qu'un parmi tant d'autre, mais votre gentillesse m'a touchee. Malgre que vous soyez partis, je vous sais tout pres de tous ceux qui vous ont aimes.

Ce n'est qu'un adieu.

Gilles

For the last ten years, Daniel and Montaigne have been friends. We usually spent some time at each show. So proud to have them represent my country. I will miss the bleu blanc rouge of their planes. I will miss good friends that guided me through this american experience. Lets pray for them and hope God will wide open his doors to these two more than generous persons.

Sincères condoléances aux membres de la famille.

Nicolas

I was greatly saddened to hear of the tragic accident of these two vital individuals. As a former student, I would forever relish the thought of re-visiting Daniel and Montaine to charge my aviation juices and to again hear their demands for perfection in the cockpit. They will be missed by me but my memories of them will live on.

Although not on a first name basis we recognized each other when we met, nontheless there will be an an empty place in the show and our hearts. I've always said I hope God has an airport, for if he does you'll find me there watching them perform again.
God rest their souls and peace to their families.

Godspeed to two of our own. Until the day we all meet again, so long old friends and many thanks for all the wonderful memories! May God bless you and your family!

I am very surprised and deeply saddened by this loss.

Daniel and Montaine were great pilots and genuinely nice people.

I remember being amazed at the skill and patience of both Daniel and Montaine as acro instructors and mentors.

The World is a lesser place without you both.

- Robert Hollander

Nous sommes sous le choc de la disparition de Montaine et de Daniel.
Nous ne pourrons jamais oublier leur gentillesse.
Notre tristesse est à la mesure de l'amitié que nous leur portions ainsi qu'à toute leur famille.
Ils seront à jamais dans nos prières.

In death as in life always together.

From my childhood days watching you fly at Dutchess County, to the Sussex airshows, to the friendship and support at Daniel Webster College, I thank you for your warmth, understanding and your wonderful contribution to our passion for flight.
Montaine, I will cherish forever the gift you gave to me, and will always remember the opportunity you gave Matt and I at Sussex to work so closely with you-

A dark cloud hangs ofer the field today, to mourn the loss of two wonderful friends, partners, and aviators. God bless you both...

Our sympathy

We participated in so many shows with Montaine and Daniel. Their loss has devastated us. Our prayers are with all their friends and family. They're probably flying in heaven right now.

C'est avec peine que j'apprends que mes cousins d'outre Atlantique sont " partis ".
Un mot me revient lorsque je pense à eux, ce mot est "passion".

Je pense qu'ils l'auront vécu et bien vécu.
Je vous présente mes sincères condoléances.

Signé : un petit cousin qui pense fort à eux

Words can never say what we feel right now. We will always remember the good times, the laughing, the flying, the great sense of humor, the beautiful smiles, the old pros, the new students and the love we all shared in Poughkeepsie. We will miss you! May God allow you to forever stay in an eternal flight, together, canopy to canopy...

The Memmbers and staff of the Mid Atlantic Air Museum are deeply saddened by the passing of their good friends and colleagues, and are thankful for the years that we knew them as performers, pilots, and people.

Their zest for life and their love for flying will long be remembered

In Reply to: Flight with Angels posted by Stan Zabielski on June 01, 2000 at 16:15:53:

The angels of the sky are now angels in heaven.

God Bless you both

Au revoir French Connection, you have shown us love in
many ways. Now you soar where only Eagles dare. We
will miss you but never forget you.

It was a pleasure to meet them and will always be
remembered. Harry & Stacee

May God hold you both in the palm of his hand. Anytime I went up to say hello the both of you were so kind.
Fly away in peace and love!

"Fly where only eagles dare"

"Dance then wherever you may be"!

Montaine when I was flying with you my spirit soared!

One learned not only about flight, but about humanity, by watching Montaine and Daniel both in and out of the air.

Montaine -- with a not so gentle touch, you always reminded me of what a lousy pilot I was. Thanks, I needed it every time. Daniel -- in addition to your invaluable critique, you taught me how to REALLY get my money's worth at the titty bars. Thanks, I didn't need that, but it sure was fun. I'll never forget flying with you and partying back at the "house." You opened up your hearts to everyone. You made everyone feel special. Great folks.
Au revoir, mes amis.

Together in endless formation flight.

Flying with beauty and grace
Reaching for the clouds
Each time that you did a show
you dazzled all the crowds
Never ending energy
Connecting with those you meet
Happy to lend a helping hand
towards your students' major feats
Charming and delightful
Open and sincere
No other team could match you style
Not one could even come near
Electrofying performers
Cap 10s' ballet team in the air
To Blue Danubes' sweet melody in our ears
Now we bid au revior to our French Flying Pair

From The Ferguson Family:
Ford, Lynn, Chip, & Neil
We will miss you!

miss you much. The phanton I.A. Jerry Bovitz-Racine,WI

miss you much. The phanton I.A. Jerry Bovitz-Racine,WI

I watched in awe many times and always had a fear for
their lives. I wondered how many times will they tempt
fate and survive. They must have wondered the same
thing but loved what they did and died doing it. How
many of us will get that chance?

Flying, Soaring, Racing with the Sun

I closed my eyes as the engine hummed
I feel it resonate through my body.
Instinctively I breathe deep,
Enabilng my spirit to be released, where it
Flies, Soars, and races toward the sun.

Rest in peace my friends. Knowing you've made this world a better place by your presence.

In Reply to: French Connection posted by Jerry Bovitz on June 06, 2000 at 14:49:11:

Thank you for the wonderful exhilirations you have given us.

Montaine and Daniel, although we had only recently met, you both made my wife and I feel as if we were long time friends. Montaine, I will never forget your critical voice in my ears reminding me of my mistakes - I have learned so much from you. It saddens me that I will never get another chance to fly with you again. Daniel, thank you for keeping Karen company while I was flying. She just loved you.
The energy and passion that you both showed towards flying, instructing, and life in general was contageous and affected Karen and I profoundly.

You both have given all those with whom you have come in contact a wonderful gift. Your family, many friends, the airshow community, and IAC family have all experienced a tremendous loss that cannot be filled. All of our lives are richer for having known you - you have entered our hearts and will be remembered warmly. Montaine, I will always hear your voice in my head as I fly a maneuver.........

Montaine and Daniel, together in formation for eternity flying without bounds. We will miss you.

Karen and Scott

I will miss your lovely and exciting airshow performances.
The Veronneau Family

My wife, daughter and I will always have fond memories of Daniel and Montaine when they were at the Battle Creek Mi airshow. We got to know them very well for the week they were there. We ate lunch and talked flying, family, and all the good things. We have kept up on their whereabouts and loved seeing their act. They will be missed.

We enjoyed having you in
Kalamazoo, Mi. You both will surley be missed.

Montaine and Daniel,

If we judged people by the lives they touch while
on this earth, you have achived so very much.

Thanks for the joy of your flying and the examples that
you set as roll models. It was our privilege to share
the sky with you.

Watch over us as you look down from the heavens.

Sincerely, Don Carlson

Salut les Artistes!

To the family of Daniel and Montaine I would like to convey my deepest sympathy for their loss. I had the privilege of meeting the French Connection in the early 1980's while my husband was taking aerobatic lessons with them. Their talent, grace, warmth and class will be sorely missed. One of my favorite memories will continue to be the brief but magnificent flight I took with Daniel during which I came so close to feeling as free as all creatures who have the gift of flight!

The worlds of Ballet and Aviation are both a little poorer today
with the tragic loss of the French Connection. They blended
both seemingly divergent human endeavours into pure airborne joy,
a celebration of life. Godspeed.

To all the wonderful friends of The French Connection, thanks so much for making the ceremony a Joyous occasion. Very kind and loving words were spoken by peers and industry leaders. A skydiving team unfurled two French flags representing Daniel and Montaine. The flags were presented to family members. A “Missing Man” formation was flown with two aircraft executing the "Missing Team" maneuver and headed west. Lastly, all were invited to the Golden Lion, Daniel and Montaine's "hide out" on the beach of Flagler. A duo sang while many toasted the Connection with Daniel’s preferred liquid refreshment. Thanks to all who pitched in and got the hanger ready for the 300 plus hundred guests. I continue to miss flying with Montaine….. A Student

D & M trained me, employed me, and supported and encouraged me when I went off to pursue a career flying F/A-18 for the Navy. I am forever gratefull for the outstanding flight instruction, the trust they placed in me as a young aerobatics instrutor, the professionalism they instilled in me and always insisted on, and most importantly, the great friendship they provided. The basics of flying and aerobatics they taught me still serve me well to this day, and cartainly influenced my success as a Naval Aviator. Thanks for everything!
Farewell.
Nadim AbuHaidar

Thank you Montaine and Daniel, first for your kindness and humanity and second for the inspiration you've given to all who love flying.

To have had the opportunity to fly with two who were the best in all respects is one that I shall remember always. They were the wind beneath the wings for so many. My deepest sympathy to family and friends.

I was lucky enough to catch thier last big airshow at the Sun-N-Fun 2000 and I thought they performed wonderfully. They will be greatly missed.

We've enjoyed the artistry of the French Connection every year we've been at Oshkosh. We'll miss them very much.

Your shows were simply the best "Works of Art" that I have ever witnessed.

Thank You and God Bless You

All I can say is I am profoundly sorry to hear of the loss.
My heart goes out to their families.

I had only one flight with Mudry Aviation, and it was one of
the greatest thrills of my life.

If it had to happen, at least they left us doing what they
likely enjoyed doing most.

Blue Skies.....

Greg

Such an honor to have known you personally.
Such a shame you had to go so soon.
Such a consolation to know you are togethe in eternity.

I remember imitating your routine under water in our swimming pool in Poughkeepie when I was a teenager: I was Montaine, Thomas, my younger brother was Daniel!
And then you would come over for a BBQ.

Such dear memories I will always remember

XOXOXOXOXOXO

Delphine

mes sincères condoléances à deux grands personnages qui ont su valoriser l'image de la france à travers leurs démonstrations aux USA. Encore un grand bravo!

Un jour dans les cieux.

guillaume.

A great loss to family, friends and the aviation community.

Montaine , je vous avais demandé l'autorisation de publier vos photos dans le site de mon aéroclub.Vous m'y aviez autorisé .Je vous en remercie et espère que de là haut , ce que vous verrez de mon site vous satisfera : il s'agit simplement de montrer ce que l'on peut faire de mieux avec un cap10 !!
Respectueusement

I was a student at Mudry in New York for 3 yrs and later on briefly in Florida. Most my flying was with Claude, some with Mike and only one or two with Montaine. Daniel I never flew with.

I remember once again resting shortly after the flight before my long drive back home to LI. In the office we are: Montaine, laughing and smiling her shy but at the same time so proud smile. Daniel sits behind his desk, has a huge mug of black coffee and a cigarette. He says nothing but nods his head every now and then. Claude explains patiently what I should do for my slow rolls.

Quality instruction, great memories, what a loss you had to go!

Jukka Jusslin,
Kerava, Finland

The only thing cooler than seeing them perform at
the Sussex Airshow in NJ was actually flying at their
school when they were based in Dutchess County, NY.

I'm sure - like me - other pilots who didn't pursue
acrobatics more deeply feel as I do though; that even
the few basic safety acrobatics learned at their
school has made us safer pilots.

There are few people in any field that have/had such
a depth of passion for their craft. Regardless of the
unfortunate means in which they have died, they leave
behind a legacy of standard of excellence to be
strived for.

Scott

All the members of the CAF French Supporter Squadron were stunned to hear about this terrible accident and convey their deepest sympathy to their family and friends.
We will miss you, until we are together again…
B. Delfino
Unit Leader

Farewell to Angels In The Sky

Thanks for all the great memories over the years. There will be a class act missing from every airshow from now on. May your ballet continue in heaven.

Sean

Memories of them from all who knew them.DSPA Joe Moriarty

I have been privileged to see these two fine
people perform on countless occasions.
They were the best. And, as one of the
individuals lucky enough to meet them personally
(Concord, New Hampshire a few years ago), I can also
say that they were two of the NICEST and PERSONABLE
performers I ever met.
Myself, as well as the remainder of the aviation
world, will miss them terribly.

We need those that are willing to show us what is possible, and to stir a desire in our heart to be better at what we do. Watching the ballet in the sky instills such a thrill in the heart. It forms around the love of flight and hopefully blooms in their students, so we can take joy in what they left us. We need not be sad at what we lost, but hopefully take joy in what they did for aviation.

Un petit message de France ( Normandie ) de la part d'Elisabeth Héligoin ( tante de Daniel ):

" Je vous adresse mes sincères condoléances "

Elisabeth Héligoin

...I'll drink some beer tonight and think of you guys ..

You will be missed in my heart. The world suffers a great loss I cry for you as so many times you have brought joy to me with your flying I share the grief of the world for your family.

They were a gift to all of us

I flew with both at Flagger in 1999 and I was amazed to see such Harmony and love in their life as husband and wife as well as pilot team.
I remember in their respective plane they had the photograph of the other. They were always together at all time. A beautiful couple.
I'm glad they did their last flight together as they have lead their all life.

The joy you brought to all in your presents will stand out most in our memory.
Blue Skies and Thanks.

My condoleances to family and friends....Montaine and
Daniel where like family to me too...the love they had
for Aviation and flying will always have a profound
affect on us all.....fly free now and touch the face
of God....we love and miss you..../s/Glenn

Daniel and Montaine,

Not many people in the aviation business, especially the
sport avaiation business are genuinely down to earth
and modest about their accomplishments.

My wife and I met you in Houston several years ago, and will never forget the time you took
out of your show schedule to meet us and talk to us for an extremely long peiod of time and i
in the process give us inspiration and heartfelt commentary.

It was an extreme pleasure and I know that you now are soaring
with angels. Our prayers are with you.

God Bless,

Phillip and Debra Ramsey

My son and I have had the pleaure to see Daniel and Montainne perform at Sun n Fun numerous times. But in 1999 they left a significant impression on my 12 year old son. He talked about them for days after seeing their performance, and an idea he had for a aerobatic maneuver. I encouraged him to send them a letter and drawing of his idea. Daniel and Montaine responded with a nice note to my son. He has had that note on the bulletin board in his room since receiving it in 1999. At sun-n-fun 2000 the only aerobatic performance he insisted on seeing was the "French Connection again". That short note from Daniel and Monaine now hang in a special place in his room. They brought a smile to a young mans face and provided a positve influence to him with their skill and love of aviation as well as by taking the time to respond to a young mans letter. He and I both cried when we heard the news of Daniel and Montaines departure from this earth. But my son and I will somehow be closer by virtue of the fact that Daniel and Montaine held us spell bound, side by side, one warm beautiful day in April.

Si,un jour, je me suis mis à la voltige sur CAP10, c'est sûrement grâce à vous. Car, lors de mon voyage au USA en 1992, dans le WISCONSIN à Oshkosh, j'avais pu admirer votre excellente présentation sur le plus grand metting du monde. Vous étiez les meilleurs.
Et depuis, chaque fois que je monte dans le cap10,j'ai une pensée pour vous.

Sincéres condoléances.

Daniel and Montaine,
You were both an inspiration to me. Thank you for the instruction and the friendship. You will truly be missed. May we join together again some day for another flight.

My sincere condolances,
Paul Cunningham
Student and friend

It was November 4 1979 when I first had the privelage to fly with Montaine. At the conclusion of the flight and debriefing with Daniel I knew how very special they were. I was not only captivated by their love for flying but also their warmth and offer of frienship. Over the years Donna and I managed to stay in touch with them and held a permanent place in our hearts for them.
My memories of training, competition and time spent with them will be precious forever.
Montaine and Daniel, we miss you...

I myself never had the privlege of knowing them, a friend of mine did however and saw them fly. It was with a great sense of loss and sadness that they spoke of there passing. I feel the world has lost two very special people. They will be missed.

While we only knew Daniel and Montaine very breifly, I was impressed with not only their supreme flying skills, but with their friendliness and joy of life. They will be sorely missed.

Len & Lily Hammond

The skies over Oskhosh will seems empty this year without you. God speed

Will always remember.

We have had the privilage of seeing them perform at
St.Louis MO, and at OshKosh several times. The pure
elegance of their flying never ceased to touch us.

I grew up in Dayton, Ohio and went to college at Embry-Riddle in Daytona. I grew up watching Montaine and Daniel fly. I saw them last at Sun N Fun this past April. Their performance was as inspirational as I had ever seen. I now fly F-15's for the USAF and I know watching them when I was younger helped inspire me to where I am today. My condolences to Montaine's and Daniel's families. The world is now a lesser place.

ALL OF THE GREAT TIMES WE SHARED. ALL OF THE PEOPLE YOU HAVE TOUCHED. WE NEVER SAY GOODBYE. YOU ALWAYS WILL LIVE ON IN OUR HEARTS AND MINDS.

I've enjoyed many hours of flight time in my nearly 30 year career in the aviation business.
I have lost many friends. Some I knew directly, and others were brothers in the air. All of them share one thing...
the love to fly!
I saw Montaine and Daniel fly many times. Never did they fail to inspire, excite, and push the love of flying to the very edge. I shall miss them, as we all will. This following is a tribute I wish to share with all of you, and especially the families of Montaine and Daniel.

A FLIGHT INTO...DESTINY
Dancing lightly upon the air.
High above the world of man and make believe.
In the lair of angels I've become aware.
In that ascent into the kingdom of God...has climbed this spirit upon the wing.
Treading ever so lightly upon the sanctuaries of his mind.
Surrounded by his golden splendor...I will soar.
Far beyond the golden gates...my cares are no more.
High among the clouds...his majesties I behold.
In this...his sanctuary...I am allowed to soar.
I control my flight with slightly trembling hands...I've reached out with my very being...and it is there...as my flight is born upon the wing...the golden threads of his robe...I do grasp.
There in heavens light...as I loop and roll my world nearly complete...I am weaving the boundless tapestries of all my dreams.
Those dreams...from the golden thread of life given to me by God...and placed into my mortal self...it is there...that my destiny is fulfilled.
I am no longer man.
I am no longer bound.
For the sky has become my eternal play ground.
Through those windy heights...I will climb.
Out beyond...the beyond.
To the very throne of heaven I'll fly.
There woven in and among the clouds...dwells the host of souls.
It is...I...my mortal self...who has dared to come into God's mansion of splendor and peace.
And in this...Vessel...that is my soul...I have become a part of the sky, and...now...my life does gently fade.
Upon the rising currents of air...through the clouds of boundless mirth...high into the golden heavens it will ascend.
I've released my spirit...so that it may soar.
High above my mortal cares...the thread of this life...I pray...will ascend unto the throne of heaven...and in God's good time...into his golden robe...my thread he will weave.

In my thrill of flight I've been saved...

To soar...
Out there...
Beyond the far horizon...
And as one of his brigest stars...
They, will light the way...

As the brightest of stars so shall Montaine and Daniel brighten the heavens as they have brightened our lives with there love of flight, and the love of many friends.
Good bye and God bless!

In Reply to: Love Choreographed to Perfection posted by Janelle Cooper, M.D. on June 04, 2000 at 21:46:20:

I was shocked to hear of the accident, and even as i still sit here crying,
I can only think, they were soo beautiful. The only Oshkosh act I would stop for during
EVERY PERFORMANCE, just stop and stare at the beauty. Thank you Daniel and Montaine!
our concellation at every Oshkosh will be that
you have found a better place with bluer skys forever!
may all of us meet you there someday!

Nous venons d'apprendre l'horrible nouvelle en nous renseignant pour aller au Meeting d'Aubigny.
Nous nous faisions une joie de les revoir après toutes ces années depuis le merveilleux temps des débuts à la C.A.A.R.P à Beynes.
Nous nous joignons à tous leurs amis pour présenter nos condoléances attristées à leur famille.

Annie et Michel

I'LL MISS YOU,WILL SEE ONE DAY.

Thank you Danny and Montaine for all of the wonderful memories you gave me as a little boy and throughout the years. I will always remember watching you teach my Dad to fly aerobatics so long ago, and all of the times you spent with my family over the years since. But my favorite memory wouldn't be of you flying, but rather remembering how funny Danny would get while playing our old pinball machine and trying to sing country music with his french accent. You were the best pilots I ever saw and even better friends to my family. I will miss you forever!

Someday we will meet again----Blake Frey

Montaine & Daniel:
We all missed you very much last Saturday at the Armed Forces Airshow at Wilkesbarre/Scrabton Intl. A/P.
My sympathy to your family and friends.

Il est une qualité qui n'a point de nom. Peut-être est-ce la "gravité".
Mais le mot ne satisfait pas. Car cette qualité peut s'accompagner de
la gaieté la plus souriante. C'est la qualité même du charpentier qui
s'installe d'égal à égal en face de sa pièce de bois, la palpe, la
mesure et, loin de la traiter à la légère, rassemble à son propos toutes
ses vertus.
Saint Exupéry

I had the great pleasure of getting to know both
Montaine and Daniel back in the late 80's when I was
working as an apprentice mechanic and airshow assistant
for Jim Parker Airshows in Vermont. Montaine was always
bright and energetic, never hesitating to answer questions
and provide knowlege I remember and use to this day.
Daniel was more quiet but loved to sip a beer in the evening
after a show, and with a smile and few words, relieve
one of a few bucks on a pool table!
I loved to watch their performances and the conversations we had as I was
pumping smoke oil in their CAP 10B's before the next
performance.
I was stunned and very saddened to learn they have left
us but these great aviators have left an impression
on me I'll always hold dear.
I thought of them all day as I polished my Luscombe.

OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY IS WITH EVERONE, OUR FAMILY HAVE WATCHED AND LIVED THE GRACEFUL BEAUTY OF MONTAINE&DANIEL,WE HAVE SEEN THEM FIRST AT THE SUSSEX AIRSHOW IN NEW JERSEY FOR 7 YEARS AND WHEN WE MOVED TO FLAGLER COUNTY , PALM COAST WE WERE SO GLAD TO KNOW THAT THEY HAD MOVED HERE TO AND CONTINUED TO WATCH THEM PRACTICE OVER OUR HOME, OUR FAMILY TRULY WILL MISS YOU BOTH, GOD SPEED AND MAY YOUR SOULS FLY FREE FOREVER AS THEY DO IN OUR HEARTS, LOVE THE LUCIANO FAMILY, PALM COAST FLORIDA

I can still remember the first time I met the "French Connection" as a 17 year old pilot in the early 70's at Sky Acres Airport,NY. They have always left an unforgettable impression of Beauty in Flight. Their skill and grace influenced me from the early days of my flying. I will always remember them for this and many more.

In Reply to: thank you. posted by Claude Chanclu on May 31, 2000 at 10:31:34:

I had the honor of studying aerobatics with Mudry Aviation at Poughkeepsie Airport for two years in the mid 1980's. I flew with Daniel, Montaine and mostly you Claude. Those days are some of my most memorable times in my 20 years of flying. They were very special people.

My wife and I made the trip to Rantoul, IL from our home in Chicago to show our kids the "Aerial Ballet" last summer and spent some time visiting and chatting with Daniel and Montaine.

We will miss them very much and for a very long time. May God bless them and thank them for all the joy they brought our world.

When I was a kid, at one of my first airshows, I got to see what flying could be, a pure artform. It's rare that I ask, how do they do that? Good bye, and thank you for the memories!

A GREAT LOSS..SADLY MISSED.

I just spent the week of 24 April at the French Connection - my first exposure to aerobatic flight training. I feel privileged to have flown with Montaine and to have met Daniel. My sincerest sympathies to their family and all who knew and loved them. As so aptly stated by others: "May your souls fly free forever, as they do in our hearts"

Unfortunately, I just learned of the French Connections passing today. I met Daniel & Montaine when I was very young. At 10, I thought Montaine was as great as sliced bread. Not only were they awesome pilots, but she had a great way of talking with people. I was so influenced by her, that I remember 8th grade French class and having to pick a French name to use. Of course, I was Montaine for one year of French. :) My godfather, Norm Crabtree and dad, Joe Kessler introduced me to Daniel and Montaine at one of many air shows in Ohio. I will never forget the grace they had in their CAP 10's. They will be missed tremendously.

Thanks for everything you tought me about flying and not only!
5 years ago i spent the best period of my life with you, and now all that i do is possible for your teachings!
Bye...........

It was with great shock and sadness that I learned yesterday on an aviation enthusiast's bulletin board of the deaths of the pilots of the French Connection, Daniel Heligoin and Montaine Mallet, on the 27th of May last month. I saw them perform only once, at an airshow in Hamilton, Ontario several years ago, and I was deeply impressed with the smoothness and easy grace of their aerobatic display which gave clear testimony to their thorough and consummate professionalism as pilots. I also know from articles that I read that they were excellent teachers when it came to the hard-won skill of knowing and flying an airplane really well. We can only hope to see the shadows of their wisdom in those young pilots they taught.

They have left a mark in our skies, and I am saddened knowing they are gone.

Neil H.
Whitby, Ont.

I had the pleasure of meeting Montaine personally at a 99's meeting in north florida several years ago and she was the one that convinced me that aerobatic training would be invaluable to my piloting and skill level. After some resistance on my part and at the urging of my flight instructor, I finally did sign up for the basic safety course which was very professionally done and with an excellent instructor (Alex) to whom I am very grateful. Their school emphasised safety and comfort.
Daniel and Montaine were two exceptional people and will be sorely missed. I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to know them and call them "friends" and for that, I will be eternally grateful. God speed to both for leaving such a wonderful legacy behind. Anne

Memories...What a sad day to learn about Daniel and Montaine... I had presented the T-34C to the armed forces of Central and South America...when I decided that my fighter pilot training was not enough... I met Daniel and Montaine....Wonderful time in upper New-York...I wish I could have gone back...too busy at Beech-Raytheon...
Well Daniel, like we say in our world:
" La chasse bordel..."

" Les ailes te portent, l'etoile te guide et
la couronne t'attend "
this is the motto of our wings.

Good bye Daniel, good bye Montaine...Sunday at my dining table,there will be two roses in front of your empty plates.

Salut les copains,

Jac Sendra

You were the best! Will miss you at Oshkosh!!

To the family of Montaine and Daniel, my deepest sympathy and prayers.

In Reply to: French Connection posted by Don King on June 15, 2000 at 20:14:56:

I meet Daniel and Montaine in 1975. I had the honor of flying with Montaine. What a thrilling experience it was. the world has certainly lost two very special people. My deepest sympathy to the family of Daniel and Montaine.

Merci d'avoir montre que l'on povait vivre sa passion avec humanite et modestie et merci pour les bons moments que nous avons passes ensembles.

You showed me a whole new dimension in life--one I shall never forget, and one I can never repay.
You never knew how much it changed me, thrilled me, to learn a tiny bit of what you knew. A humble and heartfelt thank you. God speed.

ALL PILOTS IN THE SMALL PUERTO RICO WILL REMENBER DANIEL& MONTAINE FOR EVER............

Daniel and Montaine,

In my heart is sadness and happyness. The sadness are my thoughts of a loss of two of the best ambassadors for Sport Aviation and Acrobatic Flight and the friendship that the two of them rendered on those of us who were tied to the ground. The happyness is that they never have to land because the love they shared both in the air and on the ground will never end!!!!

We will always remember the great times we had with you at the Geauga County airshows in the 70's. We will miss you!!

I was very sad when I received the news of the passing of Montaine and Daniel. I was lucky enough to have known them since 1988. I received aerobatic instruction from both of them, watch them at airshows dozen of times and always enjoyed their company.
Great loss to all of us. Their memories will always be with us.

Es imposible transcribir el dolor que sentimos ante la pérdida de dos amigos como Daniel y Montaine.

Los extrañaremos terriblemente.

A sus familiares y amigos nuestro más sentido pésame.

Daniel Regueira
Director
SLAT - Revista de Aviación de Uruguay -

I went to the EAA Fly-In in Oshkosh ten years in a row just to see The French Connection fly, specifically to see them make a heart in the air with the red smoke. I went with my first love, who is a pilot, and I always dreamt of us flying duet and doing the same show as them. Oshkosh will have less heart...

As our lives change, we meet new friends and some times loose touch with old friends. But friends are always in our hearts and our minds. To those that are now putting on an air show in the heavens and to those friends of Oshkosh; you have touched me with fond and loving memories that will always be remembered. Someday we will all meet again.

Condolences from myself and friends from the UK.
We had the privilege of watching French Connection at Oshkosh, and were greatly saddened at hearing of their loss.

May God grant them eternal flying with His Angels on high.
Thank you for the dreams and the thrills.

It is always a hard to lose an airshow friend but, to lose this great pair is a tradgedy.

Je serai avec vous par la pensée le Samedi 24 Juin à 10H30 en l'église d'Aubigny sur Nére. Il m'est impossible de vous oublier.
Votre ami de toujours.
Marcel

Perform now for all aviators who have flown west. Always share your joy and love of formation flight.