Aviano Air Base held a memorial for Maj Lucas “Gaza” Gruenther, the US Air Force fighter pilot killed when his F-16 crashed last week.  Nearly 1,200 people attended, including senior Air Force leaders and Italian dignitaries.

During the memorial service, many spoke of his inspiring nature and enthusiastic spirit, recalling his selfless and admirable qualities that he exemplified in his everyday life.

Gruenther had already been selected for Major, though he had not yet pinned on.  Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley approved Gruenther’s posthumous promotion to Major.

The official Air Force article makes a subtle statement few may have noticed:

A California native, Gruenther, 32, is survived by his wife Cassy and daughter Serene…

Gruenther’s daughter is actually due to be born later this month.  It is a worthy acknowledgement that he was already a father.

May God watch over his family.

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