William Joseph Gilbert

United States Army Specialist E4 William Joseph Gilbert passed away on May 14, 2013 while in the line of duty.

Gilbert was born in Monterey Park, California and raised in Pasadena, California, alongside his sister. He grew up in a very big, loving family and formed close relationships with his maternal and paternal sides. When he was 14 years old, his father sadly passed away, however, Gilbert made the most of his childhood. He loved sports, being involved in baseball, football, golf, and soccer. He played baseball into his adulthood on a team with his Army friends. Additionally, Gilbert was a fan of college football and played video games and the piano. He and his wife, Monica, met through a mutual friend while they were in high school and eventually began dating when they were 22 years old.

Gilbert joined the US Army in September of 2011 after realizing he did not want a desk job and thought infantry was a better option for him. He loved being part of something meaningful and bigger than himself, and adored the sense of brotherhood that came with being in the Army. Gilbert had goals to earn his degree while he served and achieve the rank of Sergeant. Throughout his honorable career, he was awarded with a Good Conduct Medal, Non Article 5 Nato Medal, Purple Heart, and a Bronze Star Medal. While on patrol one day, one of Gilbert’s brothers stepped on an IED. As Gilbert and his fellow soldiers attempted to assist, another IED was detonated, resulting in the tragic death of Gilbert and two of his fellow soldiers. Gilbert left behind his children and pregnant wife.

Monica currently resides in Arizona and loves doing anything involving her children. She also loves to cook, bake, craft, and camp. Additionally, she is involved in her children’s school and sports. In the future, Monica is excited to potentially go back to school, and watch her children grow. She is eternally grateful to Tunnel to Towers for providing her with the financial stability of a mortgage-free home. Finally, Monica would like others to know that her husband made everyone feel welcomed and was a friend to all. Although he was never able to meet his youngest daughter, she is the epitome of everything he was. Gilbert is severely missed.

United States Army Specialist E4 William Joseph Gilbert is survived by his loving wife, Monica, and his four children.