Tribute to military heroes honors Sheppard warriors

  • Published
  • By Tech Sgt. Vernon Cunningham
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  When we pay tribute to our fallen military heroes, our second thoughts are of the little warriors who find the strength to cope with the loss of a parent, while carrying the honor of being the sons and daughters of our war-fighting servicemembers.

America will have one opportunity to view a live tribute to all military heroes by going to Cinemark movie theater in Wichita Falls, Texas, and watching "Sons of the Fallen" May 18 at 7 p.m.

"Sons of the Fallen" is a one-night theater event that documents 25 boys who gather for a week at a Colorado camp to honor the memories of their fathers, military heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country in Iraq and Afghanistan. Included in the film are sons of local hero Major Troy Gilbert, Boston Gilbert, 12 years old, and Greyson Gilbert, 10 years old.

"These boys have gone through a tragic loss in their life, but they are boys and need to be able to enjoy life to the fullest," said Ronnie Gilbert, father of Maj. Gilbert. "This camp provides them the opportunity to have fun and let them know they are not alone and there are other kids in the same boat as they are in."

Major Gilbert was killed in action in Iraq while flying a combat mission in November 2006 to support ground forces.

Mr. Gilbert said the camp where the film was made, One Good Turn Ranch, was started by a friend of the Gilbert family after his son passed. The camp serves as a military-only venue to allow children of fallen military members to get together and have the opportunity to talk to mentors and other boys about what has happened in their lives and how to move forward. The camp is in its fourth year.

"It helps them cope with the loss and let them know they are not alone," said Mr. Gilbert.

"Sons of the Fallen" features fireside discussions between the boys and celebrity camp mentors, including Bill Goldberg, former professional wrestler, Ryan Merriman, professional actor, and former Indy Car racer Joey "T" Truscelli. The film also features musical performances by country singer Clint Black. The boys climb Pikes Peak, kayak, fish and ride in race cars.

Tickets are available at www.Fandango.com