December 20, 2023

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jacob Galliher remembered for service to others

REGIONAL
Staff report

DALTON – Family and friends gathered for a funeral Mass for U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jacob Galliher, at St. Agnes in Dalton, Wednesday, Dec. 20. The 24-year old was killed in an Osprey crash off the coast of Japan Nov. 29 along with 7 other crew members on a training mission. 

Galliher was a 2017 graduate of Taconic High School in Pittsfield where he played football, and helped the team secure the 2017 Western Mass Football Championship.

He leaves behind his wife Ivy Groshong-Galliher, and his two young sons, two-year-old Malcolm and 9-week old Killian.

The pastor of St. Agnes Parish, Father Chris Malatesta, celebrated the Mass. Springfield Bishop William D. Byrne was the presider. In his homily, Father Malatesta expressed his sorrow and support for Galliher’s family.

“Let our love this morning support you in your grief. It is our desire that these prayers and our presence can bring each of you some comfort and some peace,” Father Malatesta said to the congregation.

“As we gather to remember Jake, with all of his talents and goodness, we have become keenly aware that his life was bigger than himself … Because of his character and integrity, he chose as his vocation to serve our country. We as a nation mourn with you and mourn the seven other fallen heroes who lost their lives in doing the work of our nation,” Father Malatesta continued.

Galliher was fluent in Mandarin Chinese. He was awarded the Air Force Achievement Medal, Air and Space Commendation Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award and Air Force Meritorious Unit Award.

A fund has been set up to support his young family. Memorial donations may be made to Jon Galliher for the benefit of Jacob’s wife and children and may be mailed to Dery Funeral Home, 54 Bradford St., Pittsfield, MA 01201.