Other Comments:
Sent: Thursday, July 09, 2009 22:16
Subject: Thank you
I would like to thank you for the tribute that was paid to Jeff on
Saturday, June 27, and for all the kind words of sympathy, the personal
letters and memories of what Jeff meant to you, and the memorials and
tributes that have been sent to me and the kids. I know how much work
must have gone into everything that took place at his memorial service
and the time it takes out of your day to write a letter or send a card.
The words "Thank You" seem so inadequate.
To the Sailors and Marines who volunteered to line Tomcat Boulevard - We
were so touched by your selfless kindness and respect. I tried very hard
to look at every one of your faces as we passed. I know how hot it was
and how long you had to stand at attention. One of the main reasons that
Jeff continued his career beyond 20 years was because he believed in you
and he hoped that by his example you would see that anything is
possible, not only through hard work and determination, but with
kindness, decency, and a genuine spirit.
To VFA 34 - Being a part of the Blue Blasters was a highlight in his
career. You were his introduction to the aviation community, and he
loved every minute of his time with you. Thank you for leading him on
his final trip down Tomcat Boulevard and for piloting the planes that
honored him with a Fly Over.
To Chief Petty Officers worldwide - Jeff's proudest moment in the Navy
was when he joined your ranks. He loved being a Chief! He wore the
anchors with pride, but never forgot where he started. He led by
example, not rank. He led with dignity and respect. My hope is that if
he inspired you, you will carry on that inspiration as you continue to
lead. The shadowbox that was presented to us was breathtaking. We have
it hanging proudly in our front room. The thought and effort that went
into putting it together mean more than you'll ever know.
To Carrier Air Wing 7 (no words can tell you what you mean to us), the
IKE, Commander Naval Air Forces - Atlantic, Commander Strike Fighter
Wing - Atlantic (especially LCDR Penley who has been navigating us
through these uncharted waters with kindness and compassion), NAS
Oceana, Chaplain Oswald and Chapel of the Good Shepherd, Shipmates who
traveled from near and far, those who couldn't physically be here but
were here in spirit, and everyone who played a part in the service and
reception - our sincere gratitude to you. I hope that those who knew him
personally know what you meant to him.
To YNCS(SW/AW) Dan Burke and all those at Camp Liberty, Iraq who took
the time to pray for Jeff at the same time as the services at Oceana and
on the IKE. Words cannot express what it meant to know that so many
people were lifting him up and honoring him at the same time.
I would like to end with Jeff's own words. As I was looking through his
immediate personal effects I found a paper that he had written for a
class that he had just finished. It was titled "About Me". I can tell
you over and over how much he enjoyed what he was doing and what the
Navy meant to him, but let me let him tell you in his own words:
"The Navy has given my family incredible opportunity over the past 24
years; I am at the top of the food chain in the enlisted community and
in the most demanding and rewarding job anyone could ask for. Being a
Command Master Chief is like being a father for the first time over and
over again. I will tell you that I enjoy coming to work every day and
making a difference in someone's life whether that's giving career
advice or making someone smile, I just enjoy being me."
You were his "family" when he was away from us, and that brings us
comfort because he loved his Navy family. Thank you for showing us how
much he meant to you. We miss him so very much, but will carry on his
legacy of faith, love, courage, decency, and humility. Remember him, his
boundless energy, his contagious smile, and try to make each day an Easy
Day!
We love him and are so proud of him.
Respectfully,
Amy Garber
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