Gilbert Henry's Obituary
Gilbert L. Henry Sr., Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) United States Air Force (USAF) passed away on July 14, 2012 at home in Highland, California. Known to friends and family as Gil, he led a long and distinguished life marked by several accomplishments. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics form Central Michigan University in 1973. His participation in the Viet Nam conflict as an electronic warfare officer (EWO) earned several war-time commendations including The Distinguished Flying Cross, The Air Medal, and The Air Force Commendation Medal. During his time he logged several thousand flying hours in B-52 Stratofortress, F-105 Thunderchief and F-4G Phantom Aircraft. In 1974 he was elected as the Wild Weasel EWO of the year and in 1977 earned The join t Commendation Medal as an electronic warfare advisor to the Imperial Iranian Air Force Tactical Air command.
After Retiring from the USAF in 1980, Gil furthered his education and earned the Master of Sciences degree in Computer Science from the California State University at Fullerton in 1984. He then worked as a systems engineer at Hughes Aircraft, Raytheon Corporation and Air Force Research Laboratory in Rome, New York.
Born on May 3, 1938 in Johnsonville, South Carolina, he is survived by Faye Henry, his wife of forty six years; three daughters and a son, La Saundra V. Jones, Rebecca L Henry, Esq., Gilbert L. Henry Jr., Ph.D. and Cynthia M. Henry; two sisters, Delcenia Johnson and Linda J. Hogu; six grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
The family would like to thank those in the medical community who have assisted us during our sixteen year battle with prostate cancer. In particular, Dr. Emad Ibrahim and the staff of the Chemotherapy/Fusion Room at the Beaver Clinic in Highland, California. We would also like to thank the staff at the Loma Linda University East Campus and the Hospice and Care Alternatives of Riverside, California.
A Private Service will be held at The Riverside National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please donate to any cause that supports Cancer Research.
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