Aviano pilot's body recovered

News > Aviano pilot's body recovered

Aviano pilot's body recovered

Posted 1/31/2013 Updated 1/31/2013

Email story Print story

special Courtesy of the Gruenther family

1/31/2013 - MANIAGO, ITALY -- The following statement is released on behalf of the Gruenther family with their permission:

"It is with great sadness that we announce that the body of Captain Lucas Gruenther was found in the Adriatic Sea this afternoon. A compassionate husband, a loving son, and a devoted brother; Luc leaves behind a family who loves him dearly and a legacy of achievement. We will never fully recover from our loss, but take heart in the knowledge that during his all-too-short time in this world, he made a significant difference in the lives of all whom he met.

"We would like to thank the people around the world for your messages and your prayers. We especially want to extend our deepest gratitude to the many people who volunteered their time and resources to help bring Luc home."

NOTE: Per the family's request all media inquiries should be directed through the 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs office at 31FW.PA2@us.af.mil or (+39) 0434 30 7555.

Comments

2/5/2013 7:52:24 AM ET
I am greatly saddened for you and your family and I know no words can replace the sadness and grief you are going through. I pray for guidance through this time in need for you and your family. He sounded like a great man and I know he will be missed dearly.

Msgt. Forciniti, Istrana - TV

2/2/2013 1:35:07 PM ET
God Bless You Captain Gruenther and your entire family. You have flown to the heavens and now have the wings of an angel. Please continue to take care of us as you did while you dwelt among us.

Ivan Abrams, Tucson Arizona

2/2/2013 11:54:45 AM ET
Veglierai s di noi e sulla tua famigliasono vicino ai tuoi cari ciao grande eroeupward with us and will watch over your family your loved ones are near hello great hero

diego crotti, sand aniele po cremona italy

2/2/2013 9:18:01 AM ET
We are so sorry for your loss and are praying for you.

The Kolasa family, California

2/2/2013 2:27:28 AM ET
CaptThank you for your service and sacrifice.Airpower

Corey Survillion, Kapaun A.S Germany

2/1/2013 5:21:25 PM ET
A beautiful person captain Lucas I am very sorry a warm kiss to his family a warm ciao to him ciao Lucas Emilio .

emilio merlina, clauzetto

2/1/2013 4:03:24 PM ET
My heartfelt condolences to the family. There are no words to express this loss and sorrow. Those who choose to put their lives on the line day and night for those they love and those they have never met are indeed the most special of us all. I honor Cpt. Gruenther and I thank you for your service.Jennifer Rapp

Jennifer Rapp, sonora Ca.

2/1/2013 10:51:08 AM ET
Hi Lucas I remember you foverer

Nicola, Montebelluna -TV-

2/1/2013 9:42:34 AM ET
Ciao Lucas riposa in pace. Sei morto per la tua grande passione. Prego per te

Carmine Onofrio, Faicchio - Benevento

2/1/2013 8:39:58 AM ET
May God comfort you in the lost of your husband and son. He has a special place in heaven for those who choose to serve even knowing the risks involved. Our deepest sympathy.

Ron and Ruth Enlow, Avon IN

2/1/2013 8:33:50 AM ET
A great human has been lost. Rest in peace Luc.

Mike White, McKinney TX

2/1/2013 8:16:20 AM ET
The mercy of God can accommodate the captain Gruenther and to donate serenity in this moment of sadness for his family now and forever. R.I.P. with a strong hug to family Gruenther by all the Italian people loves you with deep respect and is with you at this sad time. God bless you always i will remember you in my prayers

roberto D., Padua - Italy -

2/1/2013 5:54:40 AM ET
Oh I have slipped the surly bonds of EarthAnd danced the skies on laughter-silvered wingsSunward I've climbed and joined the tumbling mirthOf sun-split clouds and done a hundred thingsYou have not dreamed of wheeled and soared and swungHigh in the sunlit silence. Hov'ring thereI've chased the shouting wind along and flungMy eager craft through footless halls of air. . . .Up up the long delirious burning blueI've topped the wind-swept heights with easy graceWhere never lark or ever eagle flew And while with silent lifting mind I've trodThe high untrespassed sanctity of spacePut out my hand and touched the face of God. John Gillespie Magee JrRest In Peace Captain Gruenther

Mike P., Misawa AB Japan

2/1/2013 5:44:47 AM ET
Our deepest sympathies are with Captain Lucas Gruenther's family during this time. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all that knew and loved him. May God bless his little girl and give strength to his wife and family members as they try to heal. You all continue to be in the thoughts and prayers of the USAF and USAFE family.

Leslie Brady, RAF Lakenheath UK

2/1/2013 4:58:41 AM ET
My prayers and condolence goes out to his family. May the Lord be with you and comfort you in this time of grievance. May God bless and keep you.

Ebony H Brooks, Ramstein AB Germany

2/1/2013 4:40:36 AM ET
Bless your soul my dear rest assured that your sacrifice was not in vain.

Saira Rizwan, Karachi

2/1/2013 4:14:16 AM ET
I'm deeply sorry my sincere condolences to the Family God bless you all.

Daniele Mattiuzzo, Maserada sul Piave Treviso

2/1/2013 4:14:16 AM ET
I'm deeply sorry my sincere condolences to the Family God bless you all.

Daniele Mattiuzzo, Maserada sul Piave Treviso

2/1/2013 1:08:27 AM ET
It is with great sadness I am offering condolences on behalf of Scott and I

Staci Long, Hill AFB

2/1/2013 12:48:31 AM ET
My family has been thinking of you and your family for days. Please know that many today weep for you and know of your family's sacrifice. Your husband and Daddy will not be forgotten

Kristin Ayyar, randolph afb

1/31/2013 11:56:32 PM ET
Please know your extended USAF family mourns with you.

Terri Shields, Tallahassee FL

1/31/2013 9:14:44 PM ET
Praying for your family May you lean on God through this difficult time.

Allyson Manley, Sheppard AFB TX

1/31/2013 9:11:51 PM ET
Cassy words are not adequate to say how deeply sorry we are for this turn of events in your life. It is obvious that Lucas was an awesome person. We will be praying for you and your family in this difficult time.

David S Ray Sr, West Virgina

1/31/2013 8:56:16 PM ET
My prayers for your family and you.

ACS, TX

1/31/2013 8:35:43 PM ET
RIP Captain Gruenther..you are home now ...

Vergel Bautista, Tacoma Washington

1/31/2013 8:34:48 PM ET
MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF YOUR FAMILY....THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE...FLY FIGHT WIN...

C. Lucero, Quartz Hill CA

1/31/2013 8:03:33 PM ET
I'm so glad that Lucas lived a wonderful life. May God continue to bless all those who knew him.

Derek Wrench, MacDill AFB FL

1/31/2013 7:43:21 PM ET
God rest his soul and the deepest sympathy to his family.

George and Jennifer Heraghty, Atlanta Georgia

1/31/2013 7:38:12 PM ET
RIP Capt. Gruenther and may God protect and bless the family and friends. Prayers and condolences to all

Laurie Grays, Edwards AFB CA

1/31/2013 7:14:30 PM ET
Because of military folks like Luc my family and I are able to live a life of freedom. Forever grateful for your sacrifice and thoughts and prayers to your family.

J Grata, Johnstown PA

1/31/2013 7:14:10 PM ET
You died a brave man Luc. I hope your sondaughter knows what a brave man you were. Thank you and may you rest in peace with the Lord by your side.

Staci Close, Wright-Patt Air Force Base Dayton OH

1/31/2013 7:02:37 PM ET
My heart breaks for this family. Oh may God you in His hand so strongly that you feel His comfort. My heart has been sad ever since I heard of the possibility.My grandson is in the Marines....and it makes your loss even more real.May God bring comfortPrayers for you and your familyc6AJH

Sandy Hayes, GeorgetownTexas

1/31/2013 6:59:41 PM ET
Thoughts and prayers coming your way. My deepest condolences to all whom he loved and who loved him.

Trish, Arlington VA

1/31/2013 6:55:39 PM ET
Condolences Thoughts n' Prayers to the family and friends of this fallin' Brother in Arms

MSgt Scot Northcutt, Yokota AB Japan

1/31/2013 6:53:09 PM ET
I am sorry for your loss. May the Lord keep you in His arms. Keeping your family in my prayers.

Paula Normandin, Broken Arrow Ok.

1/31/2013 6:44:47 PM ET
My prayers go out to this family may God give you strength during this difficult time.Ana PonceHarlingen Texas

Ana, harlinge texas

1/31/2013 6:43:55 PM ET
We know you only through the Domitroviches and we were saddened to hear of the accident and even more saddened to learn of Luc's passing. To Cassy we hope you find strength and loving memories of Luc in you precious daughter and remind her endlessly of her father's love for her and her mommy and his dedication to his country. To Luc's parents losing a child is the ultimate loss. Please know our family is deeply grateful for his service to our country. Cherish that new grandchild even more with Luc's love too. Montana weeps for your loss.

Spikers, Missoula Montana

1/31/2013 6:41:52 PM ET
So very sorry. Thank you for the service to our country. May God comfort all of you in this very difficult time

becky, Illinois

1/31/2013 6:30:35 PM ET
So very sorry for this tragedy We are fiercely proud of our pilots here. Your loss leaves us heartbroken. I pray your family will feel the love and support from all of us and to find the strength to find peace and solace.

Laura, Misawa Japan AFB

1/31/2013 6:28:15 PM ET
May God give you the wing to fly in heaven. My condolences to the family.

Alessandro Palantrani , Palermo

1/31/2013 6:13:33 PM ET
Rest in peace Captain Gruenther. You and your family left are in my thoughts this day. God Bless you and thank you for your outstanding service to our great country the USA.

Lesia Chambliss, Bridgeport WV

1/31/2013 6:03:37 PM ET
Such an unimaginable loss. Prayers go out to your family at this time. He was a true hero.

The Burgon Family, Holloman AFB NM

1/31/2013 6:00:33 PM ET
God bless you Luc

J Renne, Germany

1/31/2013 5:46:42 PM ET
Our deepest condolences on the sad loss. Our prayers are with you all.

Aviano AB Aviation Friends Group, Pordenone

1/31/2013 5:32:56 PM ET
We are greatful for his service for protecting our freedoms Sorry for your loss God bless you all.

Nick and Margaret Voke, Illinois

1/31/2013 5:10:10 PM ET
My prayers for God's blessings for the family of Captain Lucas Gruenther may the love of our heavenly father comfort and sustain you during this most difficult time.

Kathleen, Sllidell LA

1/31/2013 5:06:45 PM ET
So sorry to hear of your loss.Praying for peace for you his family at this timefrom a Proud Air Force future pilot momMoya Morland North Carolina

moya morland, North Carolina

1/31/2013 5:01:50 PM ET
Words have not enough meaning to say how much Im sorry. I think this world have been changing all the time because man like this make a big diference. God bless you and his family

Ricardo P, Mexico

1/31/2013 4:58:45 PM ET
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. As the grandmother of an F-16 pilot and living close to Luke AFB I love that sound of freedom. God Bless Luc for his service and may he rest in peace.

Judy, Surprise AZ

1/31/2013 4:58:05 PM ET
Please accept our deepest sympathy. Our son was diagnosed with a serious illness his senior year at the Academy and my husband and I found such comfort in the multitude of posts of prayers and support. We grieve for your loss and hope the embrace of thousands of expressions of condolence and sympathy bring your comfort peace and pride for your son husband and father who lived his life with honor and dedication and left this world a better place by doing so.

Helen K, Jacksonville IL

1/31/2013 4:57:39 PM ET
Thinking of you in this difficult time. I hope you find comfort through special memories of your dearest Luc.

Sarah Garner, Scott AFB IL

1/31/2013 4:56:30 PM ET
God bless and fly high Pilot

Riccardo De nardis, LatinaItaly

1/31/2013 4:55:16 PM ET
Prayers to the family of Captain Gruenther. Your Air Force family supports you.

The Bass Family , Kadena AB Okinawa Japan

1/31/2013 4:54:26 PM ET
We are so sorry to hear of this. Prayers for all of your family.

Pam, Seymour Johnson AFB

1/31/2013 4:53:32 PM ET
A prayer for Lucas and his wife.R.I.P.

Fabio, Belluno

1/31/2013 4:49:25 PM ET
Praying for you and your family.

Emily Barton, California

1/31/2013 4:47:13 PM ET
Rest in peace Luc. God bless you.

Roberto, Roma

1/31/2013 4:43:48 PM ET
Peace and love to the Gruenther family.

Rachel Stewart, Tyndall AFB FL

1/31/2013 4:42:31 PM ET
Thoughts and prayers are with his family.

The Witmer family, Mildenhall UK

1/31/2013 4:40:21 PM ET
My deepest condolences my thought are with you.

Matthew, Champaign Illinois

1/31/2013 4:37:05 PM ET
I am deeply sorry for your loss. May you find comfort as God holds you close during your unspeakable sorrow and strengthens you with His joy as you celebrate the blessing of Luc's life and that of little Serene.

B. Rowley, Rochester NY

1/31/2013 4:34:38 PM ET
My thoughts are with Lucas and his family.

Gigi, Belluno

1/31/2013 4:32:25 PM ET
Our hearts break when we lose one of our own. I pray that his wifetheir baby and their families find peace knowing that he was doing what he loved and gave the ultimate sacrafrice in serving his country. May God hold you close and carry you through these times and the future. wife of an USAF pilot of 23 years

Debbie, Minot AFB ND

1/31/2013 4:30:56 PM ET
We are praying for your loss. My God comfort you and your family during this time of hardship. Rest in peace Capt.

Jeff and Helen Kedzierski, Goldsboro NC

1/31/2013 4:24:14 PM ET
I hoped until the last but unfortunately it is not the miracle happened. My condolences to the family. RIP

Luca, Milano - Italy

1/31/2013 4:12:39 PM ET
My deepest sympathy for your loss may God bless you and keep you. Lifting you and your family up in prayers.

Dianna Streetman, Fort Worth Tx

1/31/2013 4:08:08 PM ET
Mi dispiace molto per Lucas per la famiglia e per Serene che arriver tra pochi giorni......tuo padre voler per sempre attorno a te.

Daniele Bernabei, Faenza

1/31/2013 4:07:43 PM ET
You helped me get my wings in 2005-2006. I'll always remember you Luc God bless you and your loved ones.

Fabrizio Nitti, Bari

1/31/2013 4:06:24 PM ET
Sorry for your loss condolences to his family. RIP Captain Gruenther.

Christian, Sacile Pordenone - Italy

1/31/2013 4:04:47 PM ET
As a girlfriend of an airman that got the chance to work in Aviano and in Afghanistan close to him and share their love for photography today is a sad day for me too. I'm deeply sorry for your loss. Now he's flying with his own wings and will watch over his baby. His dad is a hero fought to make this world a better place. Rip Gaza

Alessandra, Rome

1/31/2013 4:03:50 PM ET
Throw a nickel on the grass...God bless Luc and his loved ones.

Fighter Pilots, Everywhere

1/31/2013 4:01:57 PM ET
My prayers are for you all.God bless Lucas and his family

Aurelio Quaia, Milano Italy

1/31/2013 4:01:23 PM ET
Lucas now you are fling in the infinity skies.God bless you and your family.

ANDREA CLEMENTE, Sacile-ITALY

1/31/2013 4:00:30 PM ET
I am greatly saddened by this tragic news. My love and prayers remain with the family and fellow Airmen. I pray that God helps ease you're pain.

Joanne Harbin, Winder Georgia

1/31/2013 4:00:26 PM ET
The loss is unimaginable the families are in our thoughts and prayers may peace be with you.

Denise Winiarski, Suffield Connecticut

1/31/2013 3:57:08 PM ET
My deepest condolences to the family...RIP

Tintin, Creil AB France

1/31/2013 3:47:29 PM ET
Goe Bless.....and thank you for your services for the peace in the world.RipCpt.Lucas Gruenther

Gianni Azzaroli, Rimini LIPR - Italy

1/31/2013 3:41:15 PM ET
This is a sad day rest in peace dear Lucas now you will fly in the stars.God bless your soul and your family.

Luca Mastrodonato, Cervia Italy

1/31/2013 3:30:53 PM ET
Rest in peace sir your sacrifice will never be forgotten. My prayers for strength and healing during this difficult time go out to the family and friends of this fellow American Airman. May his spirit live on in the life of his precious child. God speed.

Mandy Nelson, Loveland CO

1/31/2013 3:23:02 PM ET
I am so sorry for your loss. Our dear friend Pat Testerman was the one who told us about this brave man and kept the news reports in front of us and others on facebook. I am blessed to hear about Luc will be forever grateful to him and others and families who serve our country. Again I am so sorry for your loss which in some way is a loss for all of us. Continuing to pray for his family....

Kristin, Queen Creek AZ

1/31/2013 3:19:43 PM ET
It is the stories of heroes like Capt. Gruenther and the men and women of the search and rescue teams who should be making the front page news. RIP.

JT, Hill AFB

1/31/2013 3:19:39 PM ET
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of a wonderful man. a friend of mine describes him as his role model of a pilot. my heart breaks for his wife. our prayers are with you.

tracy, overland park ks

1/31/2013 3:19:16 PM ET
So verry sorry for your loss.May time help heal your pain. God speed.

P. Vander Beke, Colorado Springs

1/31/2013 3:12:23 PM ET
I am so sorry to hear of your loss.. I have been following this story since it came out. My heart breaks for you and I will pray for you daily to keep you strong. God bless you.

Nicole Krapp, Fargo ND

1/31/2013 3:07:57 PM ET
We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you that God would comfort you during this very difficult time. God bless you and your family.

Librada R. Del Prado, Maxwell AFB

1/31/2013 3:02:10 PM ET
RIP - Our prayers to the family

Gregg, Collinsville IL

1/31/2013 2:59:52 PM ET
i live near Cervia AB and i followed this very sad story. Good bye Lucas god bless you and your family

Andrea Lazzari, Forli ITALY

1/31/2013 2:59:17 PM ET
My deepest condoleances for the family friends and collegues of Capt. Gruenther. I didn't know him personally but as an ex RNLAF F-16 pilot I wish him a peaceful final flight. Rest in peace.

Spiller312, The Netherlands

1/31/2013 2:57:48 PM ET
As we fly among them there we're sure to hear their plea take care my friend watch your six and do one more roll for me... God speed. Thank you for your service.

SRA A.W., Milwaukee WI

1/31/2013 2:52:05 PM ET
Our deepest heartfelt condolences to the Gruenther family at most sadest of times. Please know that we hold you deep in our hearts and our prayers. From a proud Air Force Family.

Steve, Chesapeake VA USA

1/31/2013 2:51:07 PM ET
Being the Mom of an F-16 pilot my heart breaks for your loss. My prayers are with you and I thank Luc for the service he gave our country. Without his help we could not be the great nation we are. Thank you Luc and may you rest in God's peace.

Maxine Roth, Tampa Fl

1/31/2013 2:49:06 PM ET
I am sorry for your loss Gruenther family. Know that the Captain is in a far better place now. I appreciate his and your service to our country. God bless you.

David Chandler, Asheboro NC

1/31/2013 2:46:01 PM ET
I had the privilege of working with Gaza so many times and I honestly can't think of a better Pilot and friend. He always had a smile on his face through thick and thin. God bless you and your family and know that you touched everyone you ever worked with. That smile and that goof ball mentality will always be remembered in my heart. God Bless and Rest In Peace my friend.

Colby, Langley AFB

1/31/2013 2:44:42 PM ET
We send our prayers up to our Lord and savior for comfort during your tremendous time of grief. Our fighter community aches today.

Tiffany Wickes, Tyndall AFB FL

1/31/2013 2:42:10 PM ET
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your lossour thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.

Laura, Aviano AB

1/31/2013 2:30:54 PM ET
So sorry for this great loss to his family and friends and to the Air Force. Sending prayers to the family. My heart goes out to you.

Art Pufford, Napa CA

1/31/2013 2:29:05 PM ET
RIP Capt Gruenther. May your memory live on in the hearts of those that loved you. Prayers for the family. I am so sorry for your loss.

JoNell Lutes, Spangdahlem AB Germany

1/31/2013 2:24:13 PM ET
God Bless you.My love and prayers for your family.

Massimiliano, Monza - Italy

1/31/2013 2:24:04 PM ET
To the family and especially Cassy my heart aches for you and your sweet baby. We have some mutual friends and our family has been praying for your family since Monday. We are incredibly heartbroken over the news today and so so very sorry you are having to go through this. From one pilots wife to another...sending love so many prayers and a hug.

Jessica Cameron, Dyess AFB TX

1/31/2013 2:22:09 PM ET
Touched everyone's heart even those who didn't know Capt Gruenther. I really know the meaning of brothers in Arms bc I just lost one. He will be forever remembered and missed.

Jacque, Aviano It

1/31/2013 2:20:59 PM ET
Surely he flown many times over my house.Somehow he was a part of my life.Blue skyes to him and peace and serenity to his family to colleagues and friends and to all 31st...

Fabio Bulfoni, Sacile

1/31/2013 2:20:01 PM ET
My family would like to extend our sympathy and prayers to you during this very difficult time. You should be very proud of your son father husband friend to have sacrficed so much for our country God bless you all It was especailly touching to my family as our son is a 4th year cadet at the Air Force Academy. We will continue to pray for you and yours.

LaRae Neprud, Billings MT

1/31/2013 2:11:32 PM ET
Ciao Lucas sento sempre gli F16 sopra casa mia...........un pensiero per te ci sar sempre

Claudio, Italia BL

1/31/2013 2:10:43 PM ET
Dear Gruenther Family We send our deepest sympathy to all at this great loss. May the Lord surround you with His Grace and His Love. We thank Lucas for his service for our country.To his wife we will hold you up in prayer in the hard days ahead.

Faye Wise, Sonora CA

1/31/2013 2:03:43 PM ET
High FlightOh I have slipped the surly bonds of EarthAnd danced the skies on laughter-silvered wingsSunward Ive climbed and joined the tumbling mirthof sun-split clouds and done a hundred thingsYou have not dreamed of wheeled and soared and swungHigh in the sunlit silence. Hovring thereIve chased the shouting wind along and flungMy eager craft through footless halls of air....Up up the long delirious burning blueIve topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace.Where never lark or even eagle flew And while with silent lifting mind I've trodThe high untrespassed sanctity of space- Put out my hand and touched the face of God. John Magee

Jonathon Lack, Anchorage Alaska

1/31/2013 2:02:31 PM ET
I am 12 and want to go to the USAFA. I am currently in the Civil Air Patrol. I am proud of Captian for serving his country. I will pray for his family and their loss. I'm so sorry.

CA1C Lauren McComb, Missouri

1/31/2013 1:55:56 PM ET
Rest In Peace and thank you for your service.SSgt Becker

Austin, Lakenheath

1/31/2013 1:53:25 PM ET
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God bless your family at this terrible time. Thank you for your thankless service. xoxo RIP

The Freeland Family, Stuttgart Germany

1/31/2013 1:52:51 PM ET
Our prayers go out to the family and friends for your loss. Thank you Captain for helping to keep our freedom.

Jim Glass, OsterburgPa

1/31/2013 1:49:21 PM ET
RIP Lucas.

Maicol Della Dora, Buttrio

1/31/2013 1:47:02 PM ET
Our deepest sympathy on your loss. Know that a grateful nation stands with you in prayer.

Joyce Carrasco, Elgin IL

1/31/2013 1:33:09 PM ET
Im very sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to your family in your time of need. My prayers r with you and your family.

Erica, Avondale AZ

1/31/2013 1:30:46 PM ET
John and I are very sorry for your loss. Prayers and love going to the family.

Katie Mills Kracy, Brazil Indiana

1/31/2013 1:28:57 PM ET
I am so sorry for your loss but appreciate the sacrifice that your son made for me my country and my freedom. As the mother of an Airforce pilot I live with this worry everyday of my life. My heart breaks for your family and everyone who knew your hero of a son.

Fern Acosta, Carriere MS

1/31/2013 1:27:00 PM ET
Sorry for your loss. R.I.P. Lucas

Andrea Bertozzi, Riccione Italia

1/31/2013 1:26:50 PM ET
I am deeply sorry for your loss. May God give you peace.

megan travers, Aviano

1/31/2013 1:25:40 PM ET
Our hearts and prayers are-- and will continue to be-- with you and your family. Thank you for your husband's and son's service to our country. May God bless you.

S Richardson, Eielson AFB

1/31/2013 1:22:44 PM ET
My condolences to the family. I hoped until the last that Captain Gruenther would be found alive.

Giovanni Virgilio, Palermo

1/31/2013 1:20:40 PM ET
God bless you and all your family. R.I.P.

Massimo maiolo, Venice Coast Guard Italy

1/31/2013 1:15:23 PM ET
My family and I did not know Lucas and his family but our hearts go out to him and his family. Please accept our sincere condolences and God Bless

Ray Griffith, Aviano Italy

1/31/2013 1:05:43 PM ET
From the 416th Security Police Veteran's. Thank you Captain for your Service to our Country. May God Bless your family in this time of deepest sorrow. Our condolence's to the Gruenther family. Dave Edwards Veteran 416th Security Police. Griffiss Air Force Base. Rome New York.

Dave Edwards, Walkersville Maryland

1/31/2013 1:03:10 PM ET
Our prayers are with the family and friends of Capt. Gruenther.

Collin Burkott, Ramstein AB

1/31/2013 1:02:44 PM ET
I am so sorry for your loss. Lucas was a true hero. My prayers are with the family and friends. God bless.Joy LisleLiberty TWP OH

Joy Lisle, Liberty TWP OH

1/31/2013 12:59:39 PM ET
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and sympathies are with you.

The Munshis, Los Angeles CA

1/31/2013 12:56:47 PM ET
Heartbreaking news. May God give the family Aviano Community and AF Comfort and peace during this difficult time.

Kendra Anderson, Ramstein AB Germany

1/31/2013 12:56:04 PM ET
Here's a toast...

D White, Pentagon

1/31/2013 12:55:37 PM ET
I am sorry to hear of your loss.He was a true hero who .May he rest in peace. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family also.

Rick Hughes, RoanokeVa

1/31/2013 12:54:35 PM ET
A prayer for Lucas and his wife.God bless them.

Roberto B., Rimini Italy

1/31/2013 12:53:01 PM ET
rest in peacegreat fliyng man....

GIO, BS-ITALY-

1/31/2013 12:50:17 PM ET
Sending heartfelt prayers

PC, Hickam AFB

1/31/2013 12:49:55 PM ET
Sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you.

Lorena, Michigan

1/31/2013 12:40:45 PM ET
My Sympathies go out to the parents of the young Man as a AF mother and a parent who has lost a son My heart is breaking for them.My thoughts Prayers and love are with them.

Louise Pace, Frazee MN

1/31/2013 12:34:59 PM ET
God bless.Prayers for him and his family.

Marco Bonini, Trieste

1/31/2013 12:33:44 PM ET
I spent a career 'air refueling' F-16 drivers the likes of Luc an unbroken bond. Not to mention I have a daughter who is applying to our Air Force Academy Luc's stomping ground and college heritage. This said as something like this happens it takes a piece of all of us. It just does. But from it please know Gruenthener Family that the entire Air Force Family hurts with you and our nation stands in awe of your tragic loss. God be with your family. Very Respectfully Master Sergeant Brad Arnsparger Retired

Brad Arnsparger, United States

1/31/2013 12:30:46 PM ET
Sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you all.

Peggy Thompson, United States

1/31/2013 12:25:49 PM ET
God bless you and your family. RIP

Zanna, italy

1/31/2013 12:22:31 PM ET
To the Gruenther family please accept our deepest sympathy for your loss of Luc. He gave his life to and for his country. May God watch over you all during this difficult time. From fellow retired Air Force SMSgt Gail DeGood-Guy and Vietnam Army Veteran Tom Guy.

Gail DeGood-Guy and Tom Guy, Richwood Ohio

1/31/2013 12:18:34 PM ET
May God grant you peace and ease your sorrow.

Kenny Abell, Huntington Beach CA USA

1/31/2013 12:10:54 PM ET
So sorry for your loss. You are in our prayers.

Chris and Christy Robinson, Aviano

1/31/2013 12:06:28 PM ET
My deepest condolences to Lucas'family. It's a very sad day for all. RIP Lucas you won't be forgotten.

Denis Ferrari, Bologna - Italy

1/31/2013 12:04:07 PM ET
So sorry for your loss. Please know that your family is in our prayers and the prayers of many more. May God bless you during this heartbreaking time.

Nancy Reeves, Louisville KY

1/31/2013 12:01:05 PM ET
We are again reminded about the ultimate sacrifice made by so many who are called to defend our freedoms. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Capt. Gruenther. We are indebted to you.

Doug Kay, Granbury TX

1/31/2013 11:58:55 AM ET
May be rest in peace. Godbless the family and his daughter who will hear so much good about her daddy.

stephanie, Dardago

1/31/2013 11:54:17 AM ET
I am greatly saddened for you and your family and I know no words can replace the sadness and grief you are going through. I pray for guidance through this time in need for you and your family. He sounded like a great man and I know he will be missed dearly.

Jackie, Aviano AB

1/31/2013 11:52:44 AM ET
My thoughts and prayers go out to Capt Gruenther's wife and family. It is truly a tragic day for the 31st FW.

James, Seymour Johnson AFB

1/31/2013 11:50:07 AM ET
God Bless...Thank you for your service...

Mike Poland, Abington Ma

1/31/2013 11:49:18 AM ET
Prayers are going out for you all.

DC, Whiteman AFB

1/31/2013 11:44:22 AM ET
May He rest in peace and the thanks of a grateful nation goes out to his family

Orville Wayne Dickson, Fort Wayne Indiana

1/31/2013 11:41:32 AM ET
I send out my deepest sympathy to all the family and the little girl who will never get to know her Daddy

Sandra Shelton-Weis, Germany

1/31/2013 11:28:46 AM ET
Rest in peace Captain Gruenther.

Terry Miller, Twain Harte CA

1/31/2013 11:24:41 AM ET
Our prayers and hearts go out to the family of a fallen hero.

TSgt Raybuck, Potsdam NY

1/31/2013 11:20:13 AM ET
Deepest sympathy to the family.

Wayne, CincinnatiOH

1/31/2013 11:18:46 AM ET
We are so sorry for your family's loss.

Jawen, Spang

1/31/2013 11:01:36 AM ET
My love and prayers for all who loved this man

Cheryl McQuaid, Colorado

1/31/2013 11:00:42 AM ET
Thinking of this entire family. I'm so very sorry for your loss. Wishing you will find peace in the memories you shared of a happier time with many laughs you surey shared with your hero. Prayers are with you and many hearts are breaking for you all.

Lynn , NJ

1/31/2013 10:42:57 AM ET
RIP Captain Gruenther. May God bless family and friends. Your nation is blessed for your service and for your sacrifice. May we always admire and appreciate what those in the military sacrifice for our freedom and protection from evil.

Frank Harrell, Cookeville TN

1/31/2013 10:40:25 AM ET
Sorry for your loss of a great man. Praying for your family

laura townsend, annapolis MD

1/31/2013 10:39:02 AM ET
My heart breaks for his family. Praying for comfort for them.

D Johnson, Columbia CA

1/31/2013 10:38:58 AM ET
I followed this story for days and prayed that Lucas would be found. I am so sorry for your loss. God Bless you and your family. My prayers are with you.

Teresa Bell, Daphne Alabama

1/31/2013 10:31:32 AM ET
Sa an Italian collegue of Luc I'm deeply impressed and feeling sad for your loss. May God bless him and all your Family and take care of little Serene.

Andrea Milocco, Gioia del colle

Add a comment

Inside Aviano

GeneralImagesVideo

View All RSS