Death – Obituary – Accident and Crime News : PITTSFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The Pittsfield community is mourning the loss of a local Air Force member who was tragically killed in an Osprey crash off the coast of southern Japan. The victim has been identified as Jacob “Jake” Galliher, a native of Pittsfield.
Galliher was one of eight crew members on board the Osprey V-22 when it crashed into the ocean. His body was found and positively identified by officials, making him the only crew member recovered thus far. The remaining seven crew members are still missing, and search efforts are ongoing.
In a statement released by Galliher’s family, they expressed their gratitude for the support and condolences they have received from friends, community members, and the nation as a whole. They described Galliher as an amazing father, son, and brother who was dedicated to his family and friends. The family requested privacy during this period of immense grief.
Local officials, including U.S. Representative Richard Neal, Governor Maura Healey, Senator Elizabeth Warren, and Senator Edward J. Markey, have all expressed their condolences and support for the Galliher family. They praised Galliher’s service and bravery, and extended their thoughts and prayers to his loved ones.
Galliher was a 2017 graduate of Taconic High School in Pittsfield. He leaves behind his wife, Ivy, and their two young sons, aged 2 years and 7 weeks old. The community of Pittsfield is devastated by the loss of one of their own and is rallying together to support the Galliher family during this difficult time.
The cause of the Osprey crash is still under investigation. The aircraft had departed from the U.S. Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni and was en route to Kadena Air Base when it requested an emergency landing before disappearing from radar.
As the search for the remaining crew members continues, the Pittsfield community remains hopeful for a positive outcome. The loss of Jacob Galliher has deeply impacted the community, reminding them of the sacrifices made by servicemen and women in service to their country.