In Memoriam

We'd like to take the time here to remember Military Atheists and Secular Humanist - Ft. Liberty members who have died, to make sure they and their service is not forgotten!

Gary Alan Guillen
Mar 19, 1951 - Apr 10, 2014

GaryGary A. Guillen unexpectedly passed away at the Cape Fear Valley Medical Center on April 10, 2014 at the age of 63. Born in Wyoming on March 19, 1951, Gary grew up to serve in the United States Army in the Vietnam War as an Airborne paratrooper. Gary's dates of service are listed as 1969-1971 and from 1973-1978 (thank you FFRF.)

Sergeant Morales ClubWhile serving with the 3rd Battalion 37th Field Artillery unit in Germany in November of 1976 at Darmstadt Hesse, Gary was inducted into the Sergeant Morales Club. The Sergeant Morales Club (SMC) was established in 1973 by Lt. Gen. George S. Blanchard to promote the highest ideals of integrity, professionalism and leadership for the enlisted force serving in Europe. SMC members exemplify a special kind of leadership characterized by a personal concern for the needs, training, development and welfare of Soldiers. SMC membership recognizes and rewards distinguished NCOs whose leadership achievements merit special recognition and who have contributed significantly to developing a professional NCO Corps and a combat-effective Army.

Not much more is known about Gary's personal life. We honored his passing during our Memorial Day cookout (May 26, 2014.) He was an active member of our local group and a long time member of the national Freedom From Religion Foundation. Gary was soft-spoken, but one who added his unique perspective to our events and discussions. There was no obituary listed, and some of Gary's fellow MASH members reminisced during our Memorial Day event to honor his memory:

"Due to Gary's health, he was only able to spend limited time with us, but we were always glad to see him. We adjusted our meetings so he could spend the maximum amount of time with us. We will miss his quiet, serene presence at our events. While he didn't talk much, he was a pleasure to have around. About a year ago, he had gotten a new black pick-up truck that he was thrilled with, and he really enjoyed showing it to my husband Paul."   Brenda Germain, MASH Fort Bragg President

"I was always impressed with Gary's determination to remain involved in MASH despite his health issues. It was such a task for him to bring his O2 tank and timing his arrival so he wouldn't run out of oxygen during our meetings."   Robyn, MASH Member.

 

 

 
     
 

©2012 - MASH Fort Liberty a Chapter of Military Association of Atheists and Freethinkers.
Information contained herein is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and is the intellectual property of MASH Ft. Liberty. All rights reserved.