Photo By Staff Sgt. Christopher Stevenson | UH-60 Black Hawks organize a flyover during a private interment for retired U.S. Army...... read more read more
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CAMP "BULL" SIMONS, Fla. – Soldiers and leaders of the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) gathered on Sept. 19, 2024, to honor the life and legacy of retired U.S. Army Gen. Gary Edward Luck, who passed away on Aug. 14, 2024. The memorial service occurred at Liberty Chapel on Camp "Bull" Simons, where family and friends reflected on the distinguished 36-year career of a leader who left a profound mark on the U.S. military.
After the memorial, Gen. Luck's family, friends, and comrades gathered at Red Empire Restaurant for a reception, where they shared stories of his leadership, mentorship, and impact on the Army. Gen. Luck's influence extended beyond the battlefield, as he was a critical figure in shaping the future of military leadership for decades to come.
"His legacy, other than being really really smart, is that he genuinely loved people, especially soldiers, he loved his family. He was humble and communicated his faith through action. I thank God above for him. We look forward to the day we will see him again, in the place Christ Jesus has prepared for us," said Retired Col. Gary Luck jr, son of Gen. Gary Luck.
Gen. Luck served in the U.S. Army for 36 years, leading troops in combat during some of the most significant conflicts of the 20th century, including the Vietnam War, Operations Desert Storm, and Desert Shield. He also commanded the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), where his leadership and tactical expertise were vital in strengthening joint military operations across all services.
After retirement in 1996, Gen. Luck served as Chief of the Senior Mentor Program and Senior Fellow for the Department of Defense. His work led to the development of pivotal military leadership courses such as CAPSTONE, PINNACLE, and KEYSTONE, shaping the careers of thousands of senior officers and enlisted leaders. Even after his second retirement in 2017, Gen. Luck was recognized for his contributions to military education and mentorship, and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff awarded him the Distinguished Public Service Award.
"Gen. Luck has done so much for the United States Army no one can name all the stuff, that would take too much time and we all truly would miss him. Gen. Luck is what I would call a Soldier's General…sir I salute you, Airborne, all the way," said Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Andrew McFowler.
On Sept. 20, 2024, a private interment was held at Barrancas National Cemetery in Pensacola, Florida. As the solemn ceremony ended, the 18th Airborne Corps performed a flyover in honor of Gen. Luck's service and dedication to the nation. This poignant tribute marked the final farewell to a man who served his country for over five decades and was instrumental in shaping the future of U.S. military leadership.
Gen. Luck is survived by his wife Leah, his son Skip, daughter Kim, and grandchildren. His legacy lives on through the thousands of military leaders he mentored, as well as through his contributions to the programs that continue to guide our armed forces today.
| Date Taken: | 10.10.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 10.21.2024 15:50 |
| Story ID: | 482959 |
| Location: | US |
| Web Views: | 134 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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