IN MEMORY OF MAJOR TROY L. GILBERT
1972-2006
Many words and accolades can be used to describe Troy Gilbert, but first and foremost he was a man of God. The reality of his personal relationship with Jesus Christ was evident in everything he did, and he took every opportunity to share his faith with those around him. He also looked for ways to minister to people on a personal level. At Desert Springs Community Church, where he was involved for the last two and a half years, he served in many capacities, including heading up the Welcome Center on Sunday mornings. Everyone looked forward to a handshake or a hug from Troy, and he was often one of the first ones there setting up the booth, and the last one to leave after putting it away. His selfless service and his genuine concern for others was a visible demonstration of his deep and abiding love for his Lord.
Troy also had a wonderful love for his family. No one that spent any time with him ever doubted that Ginger was the love of his life. Wherever they went they were a team, and Troy never took her support or sacrifice for granted. That love eventually blossomed into five beautiful children who stole his heart. He was the kind of dad that would go camping with his boys, come home and practice ballet with his daughter, and then help get the twins ready for bed. No matter how busy his life got with the demands of his position, Troy never forgot the place his wife and family held in his heart.
Major Troy "Trojan" Gilbert devoted over twelve years of distinguished service to the U.S. Air Force, accumulating over 1,000 hours in the F-16 and 130 hours on combat theaters around the world. The son of a military family, his values and devotion to duty were reflected in every facet of his life. Trojan spent the last two years assigned as an F-16 Instructor Pilot at Luke AFB, AZ, deploying to Balad AB, Iraq in September 2006. He believed with all his heart in the mission being carried out there, and gave his life protecting personnel actively engaged in ground combat near Fallujah, Iraq on 27 November, 2006. His selfless dedication as a Christian, father, and military officer is without equal, and all who know and love him are thankful for the gifts he brought to our lives.
So here's a nickel on the grass to you, my friend, and your spirit, enthusiasm, sacrifice, and courage - but most of all to your friendship. Yours is a dying breed and when you are gone, the world will be a lesser place without you.
