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Alan Gifford Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Alan Gifford
Raise your glasses ladies and gentlemen, join me in a toast; 10 years have passed and we still miss you Brother!
Mark Macy
September 4, 2015
Ken Ballard
May 25, 2015
Serviced with you during Operation ! Never forgotten!
Laura
September 15, 2014
Thinking about the Gifford family on Alans angelversary. Prayers for you all.
I think of you all often. I learned of his (and your family's) sacrifice because there is a plaque honoring him on the wall of the gym I work at.
mitchell giiford
July 28, 2014
Hi love u dad
John Alves
March 21, 2014
Alan,
My Bro Jerry and me were talking about you the other day. We just laughed at some of the stuff y'all did when you were stationed in Calif and hanging at my house in Modesto. I could see in his eyes how much you meant to him as a friend and fellow Soldier. You may be gone , but never forgotten. We'll see you one day man.
S Ruby
December 22, 2013
"TUSKERS"
Jake Albright
November 9, 2013
I had the pleasure of serving with Giff in the 1/17 Cav during Desert Storm. His lighthearted, but always professional approach made everyone around him a better soldier.
Michael Yates
September 20, 2013
Giff, I think of you often, and will always remember the ultimate sacrifice you, and your family have made for the United States. God Bless you, and your family always.
mo
September 19, 2013
he was good man and i really loved him and cried very much in his funeral ceremony and every body started look to me i really loved him and also Capt) Anderson (charlie company commander)
i really missed these days
bearing in mind i was interpreter in his company
September 16, 2013
Man among men.....miss you Giff!!!
"Scouts out"
Leesa
May 25, 2013
The best 1sg I ever worked with. RIP
March 19, 2013
Giff, one of the best. Never forget a good friend and great Trooper. "Scouts Out"
Mark Chapman
March 18, 2013
Remembering you today and every day Giff!! I will always be proud to have served with you.
Have a beer ready for me at fiddlers. "Scouts Out" Scout Platoon 1/13 Infantry Baumholer W. Germany 86-87.
March 17, 2013
We remain grateful to 1st Sgt Alan Gifford for his service & sacrifice for our country.
(SGT) James JensenJamesJ
July 17, 2012
Remembering you, SGT Deckard, and SPC Ford tonight Top. Your time spent with us continues to have an impact on my life. See you at the gates later my brother. Gods blessings to the Wife and child that survive you.
Peggy Childers
September 16, 2011
To the family and friends of 1st Sgt. Alan N. Gifford:
Please accept my remembrance of Alan on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Chris Treichel
April 24, 2011
RIP Griff!!!! It sounds from the way your soilders talked about you that you become a first rate NCO. Scout Platoon 1/13 Infantry Baumholer W. Germany 86-87. SCOUTS OUT
Marlene Schrimmel
April 24, 2011
God Bless you in all you and others have done for our country. My best deepest sympathy to the family.
David McDaniel
April 24, 2011
I was stationed with Alan in Baumholder when Germany was West Germany in the cold war, and we were both very young PFC's. He was a great man, a funny guy...he made everyone smile...I will miss him. I only found out of his death almost 6 years later, when I was trying to get a bunch of us "Baumholder boys" together. I am sorry for his loss...he will be missed by many.
Mark Chapman
April 23, 2011
RIP Giff!!! You will never be forgotten.
Scout Platoon 1/13 Infantry 86-87
~~~SCOUTS OUT~~~
Santa Monica, CA
Thomas Udy
March 16, 2011
Santa Monica, CA
Thomas Udy
March 16, 2011
Thomas Udy
March 16, 2011
Hey Giff was at Santa Monica, CA few years ago and planted a cross for you. Every KIA from Iraq and Afghan all the way to the ocean. Every Sunday am to pm then they take it down.
Peggy Childers
September 16, 2010
To the family and friends of 1st Sgt. Alan N. Gifford:
Remembering Alan on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
armybeef68
July 4, 2010
All gave some...some gave all
SPC David Harrison Ford IV 16 Sep 2005
SGT Matthew L. Deckard 16 Sep 2005
1SGT Alan N. Gifford 16 Sep 2005
SSG Paul R. Marek WIA 16 Sep 2005
SGT Victor M. Cortes III 29 May 2005
SGT Jerry L. Bonifacio Jr 10 Oct 2005
CPT Michael J. Mackinnon 27 Oct 2005
SPC Jose A. Rubio Hernandez 24 Mar 2008
SSG Christopher M. Hake 24 Mar 2008
PVT George Delgado 24 Mar 2008
PFC Andrew J. Habsieger 24 Mar 2008
SGT Steve A. McCoy 10 Jun 2008 WIA 23 Mar 2008
PV2 Joshua C. Schichtl WIA 06 Jan 2008
SFC Aaron D. Cornelius WIA 15 Apr 2008
SGT Mario A. Ojeda Jr WIA 05 May 2008
3rd Infantry Division
4th Brigade
4-64 Armor Battalion
You will NEVER be forgotten....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7-ys7UaRRQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M0SAtlv7gtw
Dianna
April 11, 2010
Keep smiling down on us. You are not forgotten.
greg honore
April 6, 2010
I served with 1ST SGT Gifford in 1/509 fort Polk. To the family of Magoo, my heart goes out to you. I will never forget those whom made the ultimate sacrifice.
Dianna Walbeck
October 8, 2009
You are Never forgotten, you are standing watch now. With Grace we honor you.
September 20, 2009
Not forgotten, at all. Allons
Peggy Childers
September 16, 2009
To the family of 1st Sgt. Alan N. Gifford:
Alan gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Stefanie Dodge
September 12, 2009
I have never met Alan Gifford, but I wear a bracelet with his name, rank and KIA information on my arm always so that I never forget the sacrifice he has made for me and my country; along with many others just like him. Thank you and may God Bless you and your family.
Most sincerely, Stefanie Dodge, Tallahassee, Fla
Pat O'Nan
September 3, 2009
Beth & Mitch; I served with SSG Gifford in A Troop, 1/17 Cav, 82nd Abn Div for 3+ yrs...then lived with him for 1.5 yrs as I attended college in Fayetteville. I was saddened to hear of Alan's death through another who served with us. He was a great soldier....was also quick witted, funny and smart. He was a lot of fun to be around. I know you miss him and I pray for God's comfort for you and your family as the anniversary of his death approaches.
LTC Serafin Alorro
August 19, 2009
I was also a cadet at FSU under MSG(R) Gifford ('72-'76_. I remember the young Alan Gifford coming along with his dad to the ROTC building. It does seem 1SG Gifford became the outstanding soldier his dad taught us to be. My sincere condolences to the Gifford family.
Kenna Larra
May 30, 2009
”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,450 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna
In Memory of Alan ~ (Debra Estep)
September 16, 2008
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.
The Wind on The Downs
“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”
(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )
Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….
“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”
I did not know Alan, but I am remembering
his service. He is my hero. !
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Other Side
i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.
can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.
i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side
the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008
The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Sincerely,
Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b
Dan Gastelum
July 7, 2008
I just found this site and I knew Alan since 25 Feb 1986 the day we both showed up at Ft Knox to attend basic training. I used to see his name every now again in the Army Time when he would get promoted. I can remember that southern twaing because I made fun of his accent and he made fun of my California accent. I am sorry to hear about the loss of Alan but I still remember him almost 23 years after meeting him like it was yesterday. C-C5-1 Ft Knox, Ky 1986
The Army's birthday party on FOB Prosperity
June 22, 2008
May 9, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you 1st Sgt Gifford!
Raymond Kidd
March 20, 2008
I was deeply sadened to see/ hear of this today, as I seen his name on the OIF III memorial (Army Magazine Nov 07) and investigated for confirmation. I served with then SGT Gifford A-1/17 Cav (2nd plt). Though I only knew him for the duration of GWI Operations DS/DS, he was an upstanding soldier; one whom I was glad to have had the opportunity to serve with and have in my platoon.
J.D. Gray (SFC, USA, RET)
March 14, 2008
I had the opportunity to work with Giff several times during our careers. This man left a lasting impression on me and all of the Soldiers that we led and served with.
I lost contact with 1SG Gifford and only recently learned that he had offered the ultimate sacrifice. The Service lost a good man, and the Soldier lost a great leader and teacher.
Giff, I'll see you in Fiddler's Green.
Geronimo!
SSG Potter
November 11, 2007
Il always remember sept 16 2005 1700hrs when i heard what happend. I really miss the only 1SG that took me to WAR and didnt come home. I still feel the same pain as i did that day and il never let it go.
Patsy Jo Reed Sircy
August 15, 2007
Sincere sympathy and love, Pat - R.N.
July 31, 2007
If this person can stand in battle to ensure my freedom, then I will stand in grief with his/her family to honor him/her. For every fallen HERO there is a bright star that shines in the evening sky to remind us of the cherished gift we were given – even if for too short a time.
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courageous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guest book for the rest of my life, but I promised LE RON A. WILSON (a dear friend KIA 7/6/07, 18yrs old) that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.
PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)
July 23, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by 1st Sgt Gifford and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
Sarah Hutchison
July 11, 2007
Beth,
I can't believe it's been nearly 2 years. I hope you and Mitchell are doing good. Just writing to let you know that Alan, you, and Mitchell are in our thoughts. Our prayers go out to you and hope you know you aren't forgotten.
God Bless,
Sarah and Heath Hutchison
Kayla-ann Alderman
June 5, 2007
Giffy you are truly missed. I can't believe that in a few short months it will have been two years since we lost you. I will never forget the great times in Cali, when you lost your glasses in San Fran and drove us home squinting,you making it to my graduation, and the camping trips.. but also your continued friendship, and guidence that has ment more to me than I can even put into words. My sadness is nothing compared to what Beth must be going through. I beleive Mitchell is 4 now. I hope he looks just like you. I know I was blessed to call you my friend. I miss ya Giffy. See you again one day.
1SG Richard Cormier
May 29, 2007
Hey Giff, Its been a year, I still think about you often. I sure do miss your friendship. Remember you will always be remembered and lead tommorows Soldiers through us. Your Friends
Derek Cox
May 28, 2007
a lot of reflection this Memorial Day. You are not forgotten Giff.
Paul Kinsella
May 17, 2007
Above all a true friend and mentor. I know he inspired many young soldiers as he did me. His love of his job and of life was contageous. A true hero. Forever in our hearts.
SCOUTS OUT, GERONIMO and GO NOLES!
We miss you MAGOO
SFC Paul Kinsella A Co. 3/20th Special Forcs
Once a Cyclone Always a Cyclone
February 13, 2007
Not a day goes by...still wondering why...what could I have done...your picture hangs in my office...to change the past...
Thomas Udy
October 17, 2006
Hey 1SG I found out today from SFC Holmes. I can't believe it. We are all here with you from Delta Trp 1/509th Airborne! Scouts out...
derek cox
September 17, 2006
Been a year now guy, still think about the fun times. Just letting you know your not forgotten in the least. Coxy
Kimberly Martin
August 31, 2006
Beth,
As the anniversary approaches I just wanted to let you know that you have not been forgotten and you never will be. You and Mitchell are in my thoughts and prayers often.
We Will Never Forget!
Veronica Roberts
August 7, 2006
"Nor shall your glory be forgot
While Fame her record keeps,
Or Honor points to the hallowed spot
Where Valor proudly sleeps."
We will honor your name and Never forget your sacrifice Alan.
Mother of FF Michael Roberts
Eng 214, FDNY Killed at the WTC 9/11
michael casteel
August 5, 2006
Sorry for your loss
Michael Casteel
MSG Anthony rc Yost 11-19-05
Garnet Jenkins
August 5, 2006
Paying tribute to 1st. Sgt. Alan N. Gifford, on the anniversary of, the day he made the Supreme Sacrifice for our country, with a Multitude of Thanks for his many years of service.
May he rest, in the Mighty Hands of God and know that he truly is an American hero.
May God's Loving Grace and Comfort continue to be with the Gifford family.
Those who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice, shall NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
My brother among them. KIA-Vietnam 1967.
"And God shall wipe away every tear from their eyes,
there shall be no more death,
nor sorrow, nor crying,
there shall be no more pain.
For the former things have have passed away."
Revelations 21:4
May the memories of your loved one live in your heart always.
Softly and slowly....
Time heals...
Henryk Zaleski (USN-Ret)
August 5, 2006
Rest in peace at your last post in paradise.
Derek Cox
July 30, 2006
Giff, I am really sorry it took so long to get here. Know that I will fondly remember the good times. See you on the fiddlers green. To the Gifford family, ANYTHING at all, please feel free to contact me. Scouts out! Giff.
Sarah Normand
July 30, 2006
Dearest Gifford's,
Alan was the kindest of souls and would always go out of his way to help out a friend in need. His influence and spirit will live on in the lives of those who knew him. He will not be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
John Vernon
June 30, 2006
TRULY ONE OF THE BEST NCOS I HAVE EVER KNOWN. HE REALLY CARED FOR HIS SOLDIERS. WETHER IT WAS COOKING BRATS DURING CYCLONE FOCUS OR HAVING A GOOD TIME AT THE DINING IN HE WAS ALWAYS LOOKING OUT FOR EVERYBODY. HE WILL BE MISSED AND I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU
ROBYN GARSIDE
June 8, 2006
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST SYMPATHIES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE ON FOR YOUR LITTLE ONE. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. STAY STRONG AND GODSPEED. SEMPER FI
A PROUD MARINE MOM
Bob Roberts
June 1, 2006
You always made me laugh. I remember the rafting trip with you Mike Ethier and myself having the time of our lives.
You will be missed!
Robert Sheehan
May 30, 2006
1SG Gifford was a true leader. I had the pleasure of serving with him in Ft. Wainwright AK for 2 years. He will always be remembered as a soldier and a hero.
Jarrid lott
April 14, 2006
1st sargeant Gifford was an excellent NCO and a great man. He trully cared about his troops and his family. He had the greatest stories and was an excellent leader. thank you 1st sargeant for all your help. You will not be forgotten. make sure his son knows what a great soldier and man his father was. we'll meet again top
Dan Van Kirk
March 7, 2006
Top was a loved and well respected man within C Co. He is on my mind often. Beth, you have my wife Michelle and my support if you ever need it. He will be mourned by those who knew him for a long time.
CPT Dan Van Kirk (old XO)
SPC. Luther Robinson
February 14, 2006
To the family of 1SG Gifford,
I was a medic who work with 1SG Gifford for a short time. I always looked at him as a mentor and as a fellow soldier. He was one of the greatest senior NCO's that I had the privledge to work with. May God be with you and bless you abundantly. Cyclone 7 will always be in my memories forever.
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
February 14, 2006
My heartfelt sympathy to the Gifford family in the loss of Alan. I did not know Alan, but my heart is broken and I am sadden for your loss of such a fine young man and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom
To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~
William Burnett
February 3, 2006
I had the pleasure of working for Alan "Magoo" Gifford at D Trp. 1/509th. He was not just a great leader but also a great friend. He will be missed. We shall meet again one day at "Fiddler's Green".
Michelle Kimball and Family
November 29, 2005
Beth and family,
I hope that you are finding strength as time passes, please know that we are very sorry for your loss and the loss of this great nation. Please know that you are often in our thoughts and prayers. May God bless you and keep you strong during this difficult time in your life. Please know that we are here for you if you ever need to talk.
Echo troop 1st Cav Family
KENNETH PATRICK
October 28, 2005
To my fellow warrior,NCO,and dear friend. I will never forget you or your Legacy. I will laugh out loud when I think of the good times we shared together, And I will cry the same at the thought of the world without you. SCOUTS OUT MAGOO.
CW3 Kenneth Patrick
Larry Morgan
October 25, 2005
Beth, Mitchell, and Gifford Family,
I am very sorry for your loss, I was fortunate enough to be able to count him among my friends as I had gotten to know Alan pretty well over the last year and a half. It still does not seem quite real that he is gone, and I must tell you how much we miss him being with us here, It is really hard enough being over here for as long as we had, but talking to Alan at least made me feel like I was not going through this stuff alone. He was a good friend and I miss being able to share family stories, and soldier stories with him a great deal, I can’t imagine how tough it is on you all back home dealing with this all, You are in my thoughts constantly. Take care and god bless
1SG Larry Morgan
Eco 4/64
Sgt.Heath Hutchison
October 17, 2005
1sg was one of the best men that I have ever met. He was an outstanding individual and leader. Everyone who knew him was blessed to have gotten the chance to meet someone as special as he was. He always had a way of putting a smile on my face. I am personally blessed to have known him and to have served with him. I will never forget him, he will be missed.
Sarah Hutchison
October 15, 2005
Beth,
I wanted you to know that Alan will never be forgotten nor the sacrafice he's given for all of his country. Nor will you and Mitchell. Not a day goes by that I don't pray for you and your family. He has become our hero Beth. I only knew him very briefly, but the Alan I met made a life long impact. I'm sorry he was taken. Keep your eyes on God and He will lead you ~ always.
Derrick & Amanda Pentz
October 14, 2005
Dear Beth,
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. I did not get to know
Alan as well as I would have liked, but from what I did know about him, he was a great soldier who loved you and Mitchell. Your husband gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and for that there are no words.
Ed& Eileen Ballanco
October 13, 2005
To the family of 1SG Alan Gifford,
We are very sorry for your loss. Thank you for your sacrifices for our freedom. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
SFC Diallo Fry
October 11, 2005
My family was blessed to have known Giffy for the short period of time he was in California. I agree with all when they say he was just a great down-to earth guy. We will miss those blue eyes. Giffy taught us all to live a little.
ANDRE GIFFORD
October 11, 2005
What can I say except how much my family and I will mess Alan.
Alan had a way about him and if you new him, you know what I mean. He could make me laugh at myself with a just a look or just that thin lip smile of his.
God Bless Beth and Mitch and I hope you always know we are here for you.
Love ya Bro
Joel & Kim Borkert
October 10, 2005
I had the blessing of serving with 1SG Gifford while in Iraq. He was a great leader and could put a smile on anyones face. His stories were nothing less than captivating. He truly loved his wife and kid more than anything and had a hard time talking about anything but them. You're going to be missed 1SG.
CPT Joel Borkert
TF 4-64 AR
FOB Prospertiy, Iraq
Kim Fleurent
October 10, 2005
Not a day goes by that we do not think of you and feel the pain of your loss. We take comfort knowing that you are with Nana and your Mom. You are a true hero and our family will deeply miss you. You were the best cuz!!!
Love,
Kim, Dave, Kayla & David
SFC Michael Ethier
October 7, 2005
Alan- Since the GWOT began four years ago I have been fortunate enough to have not lost a friend, but I knew the time would come. I was just thinking about you the other day; the rafting trip, concert in Frisco and your mentorship in recruiting. Your sacrifice is noble and I am proud to have worked beside you. Heaven is a safer place…
Beth- May god bless you and Mitchell
Rose Anderson
October 7, 2005
I miss you Alan. You was a wonderful son-in-law. Thanks for making Beth so happy. Mitchell, your son is just like you. Happy and fun loving. We will all meet again one day.
Travis Nelson
October 6, 2005
To the family of 1SG Alan Gifford,
I am so sorry for your loss. 1SG Gifford as I knew him was the best first sergeant that I have ever known. He was easy to talk to because he would come down to our level and just be like one of the guys. My deepest regret is that his son Mitchell will never truely get to know his father or get to see how great of a man he was. 1SG Gifford was truely a credit to the military service and his country. It was a pleasure and an honor to serve with 1SG Gifford, and he will be sorely missed.
Sincerely,
Travis Nelson
Michael Jones
October 5, 2005
I have lost a brother-in-arms and I will truly miss you Allen. I had the pleasure of serving with Allen prior to the deployment and during the deployment. Allen was a true professional who I truly admired and respected. He was friend that I could talk to when things didn’t go right or just about everyday life. The soldiers of the FSC will also miss him; he treated them with the same respect that he treated his own soldiers. Beth the soldiers and family members of the Forward Support Company send our heart-felt condolences to you and Mitchell and you guys are in our prayers. If there is anything we can do to assist you in anyway do not hesitate to call upon my wife Dollie or myself.
1SG Michael Jones
Aaron Sargent
October 4, 2005
I had the wonderful priviledge of working with Allan at Fort Wainwright in Alaska. Not only was he an honorable person, he was unbelievable leader and soldier. He is everything a young soldier strives to be. It was definately my honor to have known and worked with him. I am sorry I wasn't able to send my condolences sooner but I was also deployed in Iraq. Please know that he and his family are in my prayers and will always be remembered.
1SG Michael & Dollie Jones
October 4, 2005
Beth and Mitchell you are in our thoughts and prayers.
SFC Nathan Breese
October 4, 2005
Hey Giffy,
You will be deeply missed. We had great times in California, in recruiting, and you added motivation to me and all you met, you are an inspiration to soldiers. You always had a great attitude towards everything that you did. I wish I would have had the oppertunity to meet your family and you son. Myself and my family will miss you and you will always have a place in my heart for the short time that we got to know each other. God bless you and your family, and I know you are up in the mountains watching over us.
jerry alves
October 3, 2005
My Bro. Alan,
I will miss you and the great times we had in recruiting. Beth, I'm sorry to have never had the chance to meet you or Mitchell,
this country has truly lost a great American.
John & Kerry Grant
October 3, 2005
We were so fortunate to meet Alan while John was stationed at Fort Wainwright, AK. Alan was a good friend and we had many good times camping, fishing, and just hanging out. Alan was a wonderful husband and father; and we are glad that John played a small part in introducing Alan to Beth. Alan loved his family so much! He was also a great leader and all his soldiers respected him. Alan will be missed dearly. Know you are in our thoughts and prayers!
John, Kim, Rachel, Rexanna, Devin Jackson
October 1, 2005
Beth,
We are very sad at your loss... our loss. It is neat to read here about Alan's huge impact on so many lives. He was a great brother-in-law and Uncle.
While we are sad, he celebrates with Jesus everyday. I can't wait to meet up with him in heaven. Not everyone can say they have met a true hero, I can and its thanks to Alan.
Love,
John, Kim, Rachel, Rexanna, and Devin
Andrew & Bridget Rice
September 30, 2005
We met Alan while stationed in Alaska at Ft Wainwright. He was the nicest guy and he made a mean pot of moose stew! Andy and he became very good friends. We got to spend a lot of time with him and his wonderful wife Beth. We wish Beth and Mitchell and the Gifford family all the best and you are all in our thoughts and prayers. We cherish the memories and good times we were able to share with Alan. He will be missed.
Jacob Wruck
September 30, 2005
The Gifford Family,
I offer my deepest condolences to you. I first met 1SG Gifford a couple of months after arriving at my 1st duty station of Ft. Stewart, during Marne Focus. 1SG Gifford was the 1st 1SG I'd met who talked to his men like he was himself a specialist. His humorous stories and cheerful outlook became a rolemodel for me as a new soldier and as a man. It's been difficult for me to accept his passing as I was away when he fell, and everyday I see his photo and have to tell myself that it's not a dream.
It isn't everyday that one knows his own heros on a personal basis, but I proudly told others how Alan was one of my heros. He was a blessing in the lives of all that he met and my prayers go out to all that loved him.
In Utmost Sincerity,
SPC Jacob Wruck "Doc"
PLT Medic
Matthew Ballard
September 29, 2005
To 1SG Gifford's Family & Friends,
Alan Gifford was a mentor, friend, and top-shelf NCO. He along with a few other NCO's in D Troop 509th PIR, showed a young LT in 1994 what leadership and caring for soldiers was truly about.
My prayers go out to Alan's family and friends - he will be missed.
Please know one thing, the lives Alan touched, including mine, made a difference, made me and others simply better human beings. I will always remember him.
Sincerely,
Matthew Ballard
MAJ, MI
David Anderson
September 28, 2005
The Gifford Family,
I am deeply sorry for your lose. Alan was a true joy to be around. As my 1SG, he made my life easy. He was always professional. These words do little for such a man. Everyday I wake up hoping it was a dream. My company and I will never be the same. As we drive on, we hold a special place in our hearts. We will devote our remaining time here to 1SG, SGT Deckard, and SPC Ford.
You are in my prayers and in our thoughts.
CPT David Anderson
Cyclone 6
Ray Forbess
September 27, 2005
MSG(ret) Doug Gifford,
As one of your ROTC students at FSU I remember your son tagging along as we went to the field. You and your family have my deepest sympathy. This is also on behalf of Doug Atwater, Chuck Carter and Kim Truitt. You were a mentor to us . God Bless your family,
Ray and Barb Forbess(FSU 78)
Sharing a drink in Alaska
September 26, 2005
Halloween in Alaska. Homemade costumes
September 26, 2005
Joshua Kepple
September 26, 2005
To the Gifford Family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Alan was my Platoon Sergeant in Alaska, I was his senior scout. He was a great mentor and person. He would always keep you smiling whether it was singing "should've been a cowboy" in the office or talking about life in general. He will never be forgotten. There are other guest for Alan from alot of signatures from soldiers who knew him at
http://www.legacy.com/baltimoresun/
Guestbook.asp?PersonID=15162744
The Kepple Family
The Heavner Family
September 26, 2005
Beth and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this very difficult time!
May God Bless You!!
Daniel Jordan
September 26, 2005
I knew Alan when attending Lincoln High School, he was a great friend and we had a lot of great times together. I haven't seen him in a long time but I'm very sad that I'll never see him again, there are a lot of his old crowd here in Tallahassee who feel the same way. Everyone talks about what a great soldier he was, but to us he'll always be "The Giff". I've been so sad the past several days since hearing about his death. I'm sorry his son will never know his father, but I'm also glad there is a little Giff out there. Alan was destined to be a soldier, he was talking about joining the army from the day I met him. He lived his life's dream and gave his life for us all, I'll never forget him.
Ret. 1SG. O.C. Jr.(Mary) Evans
September 26, 2005
Beth, We are truly sorry about the lost of Alan. We did not know him personally but through Sgt. Bobby Johnson, we felt as though we did.
He is our hero and will truly be missed.
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How to support Alan's loved ones
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The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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Read moreWays to honor Alan Gifford's life and legacy
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You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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