Posted on 10/27/2009 6:38:52 AM PDT by Jet Jaguar
The death of an Air Force F-16 pilot is hitting close to home for many in Wichita Falls ... because Captain Nicholas Giglio spent several years as a student and then as an instructor pilot at Sheppard Air Force Base.
He died Thursday when his F-16 collided mid-air with another F-16 off the coast of South Carolina.
Katie Crosbie joins us now -- Katie, such a tragedy. It is, Doug. Captain Nick Giglio leaves behind a young family and a host of friends who spoke of his legacy. "My heart aches, but my faith is still strong." The words of a grieving widow ... Posted on Facebook ... “Nick was a great, godly man, best friend, wonderful loving father, and husband and friend to all. He will be missed by many." "Missed by many" -- it's a sentiment that rings true for all the lives that Nick Giglio touched in Texoma.
“They [the Giglios] were very compassionate,” said Martha Testerman (family friend). “The type of people who do all the quiet things behind the scenes." “If you were down and out, call Nick, and he’s right there to swoop in and save the day,” said Misty Giner (family friend). “You wouldn’t find a better officer,” said Major Colby Cates, who served with Capt. Giglio. “And his character was just top-notch. Beyond any doubt. I knew what Nick was about. The Air Force has lost a great person, a great officer, a great pilot." And, they say, a devoted family man who adored his wife, Leigh, and one-year-old daughter, Grace. “As soon as Baby Grace was born, Leigh told me that Daddy was already wrapped around her finger,” said Melissa Southard (family friend). “I remember the first day back to work for her daddy - just the sheer joy in his eye that he had had a baby girl,” Major Cates said.
Leigh and Nick are now expecting a new baby boy – who –along with Grace – will grow up learning about his dad's legacy: “He’s not here to give them hugs,” Martha said, “but he would be proud of his kids, too. He would treasure them." And those who served with Nick in the Air Force ... who went to church with him ... who felt his impact ... want his children to grow up treasuring his memory. Lt. Col. Pat Testerman has this message for Nick's children: “We know you miss him – lots of people around here miss him, too,” Testerman said. “He’s worth remembering as your dad. He's someone that - when you finally get to see him - you're going to just be amazed as well." (Leigh’s facebook): "This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad. I love you, Nick – always and forever (and a day)." Some members of the Sheppard community will be flying some T-6 trainers out for Captain Giglio's memorial service -- to show what an impact he had on the training world.
Follow up ping.
Heartbreaking.
Prayers for the family.
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