Frank Urban Valero

Frank Urban Valero December 19, 1930 – August 25, 2024

Frank Urban Valero, 93, of Apopka, Florida, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Born on December 19, 1930, in Hagerman, New Mexico, Frank lived a life marked by dedication, service, and love. Over the years, he made his home in Pueblo, Colorado; Monroe, North Carolina; Columbus, Georgia; and finally, Apopka, Florida.

Frank began his distinguished military career as an airborne paratrooper, ultimately rising to the rank of Sergeant First Class (SFC) E-7. He concluded his service as an instructor in the Army's Basic Airborne Course at Fort Benning (now Fort Moore), where he was a Black Hat, or jump instructor. Frank was recognized with numerous awards for his bravery and service, including the Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal (5th Award), National Defense Service Medal with 1 Bronze Service Star, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon with Device, Glider Badge, and Master Army Parachutist Badge.

Among these, the Bronze Star Medal stands out as one of the most prestigious. This medal is awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces for acts of heroism, merit, or meritorious service in a combat zone. To earn this medal, a service member must demonstrate exceptional bravery, leadership, or performance in challenging and dangerous circumstances. Frank’s receipt of the Bronze Star Medal is a testament to his courage and dedication, both in the face of danger and in his consistent commitment to duty. This medal reflects the great man he was, exemplifying the integrity, honor, and selflessness that characterized his entire life.

Frank’s military service was not just about the medals he earned but also the profound impact he had on those he trained and served with. A story that speaks to Frank’s courage involves a fellow soldier whose parachute failed to open properly during a jump. Without hesitation, Frank maneuvered himself to assist the soldier, ensuring a safe landing and saving his life. This act of heroism was just one example of Frank’s selflessness and dedication to his brothers in arms.

Frank’s influence extended beyond his military career, touching every aspect of his life. Official commendations from his military service provide a glimpse into the qualities that defined him as a husband, father, and friend. In 1963, the graduating members of the “Special Field Grade Officers Basic Airborne Training Course” praised Frank for his “humor, quick wit, and actual demonstration of what we had to do or what we were doing wrong.” His practical, hands-on teaching style was invaluable to those he trained. In the same year, Frank was entrusted with high-prestige assignments, including serving as the principal assistant instructor for foreign dignitaries, such as the Commander in Chief of the Chinese National Army. He also conducted training in Spanish for Lt. Colonel Purma, a Colombian officer who later organized his country’s first airborne battalion.

In 1966, then-Brigadier General Louis Seith of the U.S. Air Force commended Frank as an “utterly loyal and dedicated non-commissioned officer of great value to the U.S. Army,” noting Frank’s exceptional perception, leadership, and ability to tailor his approach to meet the needs of each soldier. General Seith, who later became Chief of Staff at Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, became a qualified parachutist thanks to the exceptional instruction Frank provided.

These commendations, though written during Frank’s military career, represent the way he lived his life every day. If such commendations were kept by wives, children, and friends, they would be filled with countless similar examples of Frank’s humor, dedication, and ability to bring out the best in those around him.

After retiring from military service, Frank continued his dedication to excellence by founding a boat repair business with his wife, Bonnie, and his son, Robert Clark. His craftsmanship, attention to detail, and passion for helping others were evident in every project he undertook.

Frank is survived by his beloved wife, Bonnie Valero; his children, Anthony (Becky) Valero, Johnny Valero, Leon Valero, and Libby (David) Carver, Tom (Matthew) Clark and Robert (Heather) Clark; and his sister, Neomi Guerrero. He also leaves behind 18 grandchildren, 49 great-grandchildren, 16 great-great-grandchildren, and other loved ones. Frank was preceded in death by his daughter, Sandra Valero Hernandez and sister Elizabeth Navarro.

In accordance with Frank’s wishes, he will be cremated, and no formal service will be held. The family invites those who knew Frank to remember him in their own special way. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Frank’s honor to the 101st Airborne Division Association (link). Frank loved his service to his country and would want to continue supporting his brothers and sisters in the Army through this association.

Frank’s memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those who were fortunate enough to know him.