Tournament honors fallen pilot

  • Published
  • By Airman Ryan Conroy
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  Team Aviano hosted a softball tournament June 21-23 in honor of Maj. Lucas Gruenther, an Aviano fighter pilot who lost his life during a training mission over the Adriatic Sea Jan. 28, 2013.

The tournament, sponsored by 4 the Fallen Europe, consisted of nine teams from different squadrons and began with an emotional speech by Gruenther's commander at the time of the accident, Lt. Col. John Peterson, 555th Fighter Squadron.

"It's a beautiful day," began Peterson. "For those of us who knew Gaza (Gruenther) really well, we know he lived and loved every day whether it was beautiful or not."

Peterson reflected upon numerous instances of Gruenther's life. He recalled an experience in which Maj. Gruenther went back to his hometown high school and gave advice and encouragement to a group of students.

"Get out there and try hard at everything you do," said Gruenther. "And then when you realize what you want to do in life, everyone is going to know that you are a champion. They will do anything for you. They'll bend over backwards for you to get you where you need to be, because they know you're a champion."

In remembrance of Gruenther's accomplishments throughout his life and service, a shadow box with an American flag and two softballs signed by the team were given to his wife, Cassy, and their daughter, Serene, on behalf of 4 the Fallen Europe.

Cassy, with her daughter in her arms, was then given the honor of throwing out the first pitch to commence the start of the tournament.

The tournament, raised $1,800 for the non-profit organization, 4 the Fallen Europe, with the help of Team Aviano. The money will be used for future remembrance ceremonies honoring Aviano Airmen.

"This softball tournament was started for two reasons." said Staff Sgt. Wesley Cummins, 4 the Fallen Europe vice president. "First and foremost, to give 4 The Fallen Europe an opportunity to honor Maj. Gruenther, and secondly to assist intramural softball teams getting ready for the intramural season. Our ultimate goal is to do this throughout Europe; to remember the departed and raise awareness for the wounded."

"Being a member of 4 the Fallen is an honor," said Senior Airman Nicholas McDonald, 4 the Fallen team member. "Especially when I can show others the appreciation I have for the ones who paid that ultimate sacrifice."