“Remembering Staff Sgt. Jake Galliher: A Hero’s Homecoming and Final Farewell”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Jake Galliher: A True American Hero

PITTSFIELD, Mass. – The city of Pittsfield came together on Friday evening to honor the life and sacrifice of Staff Sgt. Jake Galliher, a U.S. Air Force serviceman who tragically lost his life in a CV-22 Osprey crash off the coast of Japan on November 29th. Galliher, 24, leaves behind a loving wife, Ivy, and their two young children.

The somber procession began as military service members and law enforcement officers stood in silence, saluting as the honor guard slowly walked past and loaded Galliher’s casket into a hearse. The procession, led by police, made its way through the Massachusetts Turnpike, downtown Lee, Lenox, and finally to Park Square and Taconic High School in Pittsfield, where Galliher had graduated in 2017 before enlisting in the Air Force.

Throughout the procession, residents lined the sidewalks, waving American flags as a symbol of respect and gratitude for Galliher’s service. The Colonial Theatre on South Street illuminated its brick facade with red, white, and blue lights, and its electronic sign read “Welcome Home Jake” alongside a picture of the fallen airman.

The procession concluded at Dery Funeral Home on Bradford Street, where Galliher’s wake is scheduled for Tuesday from 2 to 6 p.m. at St. Agnes Catholic Community in Dalton. A funeral service will follow on Wednesday at 11 a.m., with a private interment to follow.

Galliher’s family released a statement expressing their profound grief and determination to honor his memory. “Jacob was the light of our lives, and we want him to be honored and remembered the way those who loved him will remember him – as a smiling, happy, loving man always willing to put family, friends, and teammates above all,” the family said.

Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey, who spent time with Galliher’s family during a recent Christmas celebration at the Statehouse, spoke highly of the young serviceman. “They talked about what an amazing young man he was, a lot of experience, a lot of life experience at a very young age,” Healey said. “It’s heartbreaking to know that he leaves behind his wife, Ivy, and two young children.”

Congressman Richard Neal, whose district includes Pittsfield and the Berkshires, also expressed his admiration for Galliher. “I can’t emphasize enough the sacrifice of such a young life, Jake Galliher, who is so well regarded, so well spoken of,” Neal said. “I think that we’re fortunate in America that Jake Galliher wanted to join the military… I think he’s an example of the best of it.”

The CV-22 Osprey, the aircraft in which Galliher and seven other airmen were killed, has faced numerous problems since its inception in 2007. The U.S. military grounded all of its Osprey V-22 aircraft about a week after the crash due to a material failure. Over 50 troops have died while testing or training in the aircraft, highlighting the risks faced by those who serve.

As the community mourns the loss of Staff Sgt. Jake Galliher, they are reminded of the deep, lasting impact of his life. Galliher’s family and the entire community ask for prayers and privacy as they navigate the difficult days ahead. In the face of tragedy, they strive to ensure that Galliher’s young sons and the community as a whole will never forget the sacrifice he made for his country.

For further information about the wake and funeral services, please contact the Dery Funeral Home on Bradford Street in Pittsfield.

Contact:
Nick Stoico
nick.stoico@globe.com.