One of the most rewarding programs we have at The AMF Foundation is Operation Shadow. Operation Shadow is a program dedicated to providing wounded warriors, veterans and gold star families with mementos honoring their service or the service of their loved one. It is a great honor to present our first shadow box in remembrance of Major Lucas “Gaza” Gruenther.
Major Gruenther earned his commission from the United States Air Force Academy in 2003, where he was a Distinguished Graduate and member of the Parachute Team, the “Wings of Blue”. He went on to attend Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training at Sheppard AFB, TX in 2004. Following pilot training, Maj Gruenther remained at Sheppard and served as a T-37 Instructor Pilot until attending the F-16 Basic Course in 2009 with the 162nd Fighter Squadron in Springfield, OH. Major Gruenther currently flies with the World Famous Highly Respected “Triple Nickel” where he has served as the Assistant Chief of Training, Chief of Plans, and combat F-16 pilot during Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, accumulating over 400 combat hours. Major Gruenther earned his Master’s Degree from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University and is a Distinguished Graduate of Squadron Officer School.
On January 28, 2013, Luc was on a training mission over the Adriatic Sea off the coast of Italy. During the training sortie Luc was forced to eject from his F-16 and did not survive the ejection. Luc is survived by his daughter Serene Gruenther born on February 7, 2013, his wife of 7 years, Cassy Gruenther, his mom Romel Mathias, his brother and sister-in-law Alex & Britton Gruenther, his brother Chance Hildreth, his grandmother Melba Mathias, his grandmother Brigitta Gruenther. His Aunts Megan & Marissa Mathias and cousins Sara, Eza, Max, McKenzie and Isabella; and the rest of his family and friends.
We are honored to be able to build this shadow box for Luc’s daughter Serene, to commemorate her father’s bravery and service to our great nation. Luc’s legacy continues to live on and inspire us all to make the most of every day and never take anything for granted. Please head over to www.mlglf.org to find out more about Luc’s story and the incredible things they are doing to help his legacy live on.
“As per usual, life is good.” – Luc
