Memorial service planned for F-16 pilot killed in crash off Charleston coast

A memorial service honoring fallen pilot Capt. Nicholas Giglio is scheduled for 10 a.m. Thursday outside Hangar 1200.

All Shaw Air Force Base personnel are invited to attend, including military spouses. However, the service is not open to the public.

Captain Giglio’s family issued a statement today: “We are, and will always be, proud of his service to our country,“ they said. “He knew the dangers of being a military pilot, but was a man strong in the Christian faith and willingly accepted the dangers as the price of Air Force duty. We are grateful for the outpouring of compassion.“

The service will include an invocation, a hymn and then remarks by Lt. Col. Lance Kildron, 77th Fighter Squadron commander. A missing-man formation flyover of F-16 Fighting Falcons will also occur during the service.

The Air Warrior Courage Foundation has established a fund for the future education of Captain Giglio’s children. For information or donations online, visit http://www.AirWarriorCourage.org.

Flowers for the family may be sent to the 77th Fighter Squadron, 750 Fighting Falcon St., Shaw AFB, S.C.