45, of Baltimore, Maryland.
Gilmore died when the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter he was in was shot down by unknown enemy ordnance in Tikrit, Iraq. He was assigned to the Judge Advocate General Office, Headquarters Department of the Army, Pentagon. Died on November 7, 2003.
Please send information, photos, and corrections for Army Command Sgt. Maj. Cornell W. Gilmore I.
Leave a message in memory of this servicemember, and/or to the loved ones left behind.
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"Just thinking of CSM Gilmore and his family today. Gone way too soon, but never forgotten."
Dave Doughty of Florence, SC
"Thinking about CSM Gilmore and his wonderful family today. He is never forgotten."
Matt Peyton of Dallas, TX
"Donna, I am so sorry for your loss, I wish I would have kept in contact with Gil. Met up with him one time in Germany when I was there. He was an awesome friend and a great room mate at Ft Polk , and like he always said, he had my back."
Rick Holda of Green Bay, Wi
"CSM Gilmore was and still is a great mentor and leader. He made a great impact on my life when we were stationed together at Ft Lewis, WA. His wife is an awesome lady as well. Together, they did God's work and never made you feel "less than" because of your circumstances and situations, and you knew they serve God and wanted God's best for your life. Thank you for everything and I thank God for allowing me to know you and your beautiful family."
Michele Wray of Puyallup, WA
"ALWAYS Remembered, NEVER Forgotten"
Matt Peyton of Dallas, TX
"Gil...it is going on 12 years and I still miss you dearly. Thank you for giving me a life beyond my dreams. Our children and grandchildren are well...rest my love until we meet again!"
Donna of King George VA
"Greetings SGM, a whole lot has happened since last year, but you already know this. Thank you for guiding me along the way."
Marley of Still at Ft Lee, HAHA
"Greetings, Today makes 10 Years since you left us. Not a day goes by that I do not think of you. I am still here training the new generation of Paralegals that will someday take my place. Thank you for your guidance still, through all my trail and tribulations at work you keep me focused. We Love You and We Miss You Pappa Bear."
SFC Marley E Ganthier of J Co, 244th QM Bn Fort Lee, VA
"CSM you will NEVER be forgotten!"
CPT Lesley Mose of Spotsylvania, VA
"I have not forgotten Sergeant Major. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers as always."
CSM Troy Tyler of Spotsylvania, VA
"9 Years…. Wow. Nine years ago today getting ready to leave PT at Ft. McPherson, GA. I get pulled with the rest of our Jag office and SGM Zaworski tells us he has some news. A Blackhawk carrying the Regimental CSM and our Warrant of the Corps was shot down over Tirkit. I fall to my knees…. One of the worst days of my Army life. “Poppa Bear”, the reason I am still here. You watch over me every day and guide me as a Solider, as a person, as a mother and I thank God for you every day."
SFC Marley Ganthier of Fort Lee, VA
"GREETINGS,
RUN FOR THE FALLEN TODAY AT FORT LEE AND THE NEW 27D COMPANY, J CO, 244th QM BN IS RUNNING FOR YOU!!!!"
SFC Ganthier of Fort Lee, VA
"GREETINGS as my uncle always said. Thanks to all for the kind words. Cornell you are truely missed. We love you."
SFC(R) David Frederick of Columbia, South Carolina
"CSM Gilmore, on this Memorial Day, I just wanted you and your family to know that you're never forgotten. Your positive attitude and profound example will always be with those of us that had the honor to know you."
Matt Peyton of Dallas, TX
""Greeting and salutations." Well, we finally made the move from Ft Jackson to Ft Lee... Very interesting so far, but you already know that. Your portrait is on my desk, yes I know that is being selfish.. It will go up in our dayroom soon. We are still getting settled into our new spot. Miss You and Always Thinking of you."
SFC MARLEY GANTHIER, SR PLT SGT JULIET Co, 244TH QM BN of FORT LEE, VA
"I'm just a little E2. I have never met you and unfortunately I will never have the honor Or privilege of meeting you. My senior NCO always talks about you though, she really misses you. She is an amazing sergeant, you would be so proud. I'm sure since she said she learned it all from you, you are amazing as well.I wish I could have met you during my life but God bless you for all you have done and all you did and continue to do even when you are gone. May you rest in peace and continue to inspire us all through those you have taught so well."
PV2 Troesser, Hilarie
""Greeting and salutations." words that CSM Gilmore used to welcome me to the JAG Corps. Fort Lewis WA JAG learned a lot from him. He helped me transition to the JAG. He helped me remember that we, as NCOs, were there for the soldiers, no matter the time or place. CSM Gilmore was NEVER too busy to take the time to listen, give advice, lend a shoulder and, when needed, a firm push in the right direction.
Thanks for all you did and all you gave. Thanks for pulling me in your office and saying "OK Robert, why the long face?" Wish there was more I could say, but THANK YOU seems to come to mind for you being you.
Donna, thank you for sharing him with us. He touched lives in many ways, and still does so to this day. Have spoken to SSGs that met him as PVTs and they still remember him.
Please know we share you loss, but we share your love. Take care"
Robert Sarnes of Tacoma, Washington
"Greetings Gilmore Family,
Today marks the 8th year since Regimental Sergeant Major Gilmore and Chief Warrant Officer of the Corps Swartworth were killed in action. We are thinking of them today in the JAG Corps, as we do often, and wanted to remind you again -- they are gone but definitely not forgotten, and neither are any of you.
With uptmost respect,"
Holly and Alan of Springfield, VA
"Missin you today dad! 10 years after 9-11 and can't help thinking of you and your sacrifice. :) Funny that I am a father now too. Lil Cornell W. Gilmore III "Tre" Wish he could've known you but he sees you (hopfully) through me. Love you pops! Thanks."
Cornell W Gilmore II of Raleigh, NC
"My dear love today is one of those days that I miss you more than ever. Nothing special has happened, the children are for the most part okay...I am just missing my love and I stumbled upon this page and read a few tributes and my heart is encouraged once again. You are still remembered by many...some names I recognize, others I do not but they all say the same thing...you made a difference in their life. My love you are and always will be important to many but my love always. Missing you so much today and always. SHMILY"
Donna of Virginia
"Correction: "CSM" Gilmore...I am pushing right now."
Matt Peyton of Dallas, TX
"SGM Gilmore, today U.S. Navy Seals took out 9/11 mastermind Usama Bin Laden. When the President made the official announcement tonight confirming the news, I thought about you and the incredible example you set. You are never forgotten."
Matt Peyton of Dallas, TX
"Friends and Family, Blessing to you all.
As I sit here today, I miss a man that I met only once. I miss not the Regimental Sergeant Major, not even a Sergeant Major, or in fact, not the NCO or the Soldier, I miss the man that sat across from me at Fort Sill in 2003. I miss the man that looked across the table, as he leaned back in his chair while wearing a jogging suit, and did two things that will forever sit on my heart. He asked, "What can I do for you?" and then he did not look away. He did not ask what he could for me today or if I needed anything, he asked for the long haul, he asked me what he could to impact my life from that point forward.
So today, I am reminded to ask those in my charge, "What can I do for them?" and not look away. SGM Gilmore taught me to look beyond today and tomorrow, for the day tomorrow will not come is not known to man; he lived the path that God called him to walk and he smiled for whose he is, he knew.
To answer your question, Sergeant Major, what can you do for me? You have already done it.
Blessings to you all as you follow the path God has before you."
Dan of Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
"To the family of CSM Gilmore: Like the many other messages to you, I have to point out the the most notable characteristic about CSM Gilmore. He was a great man of God! I only knew him for a couple of years and our encounters were usually brief. Anyone who knew him could not help but notice that he was so full of life and more importantly, full of Christ's love. His light was not hidden under a bushel basket. Where ever he went his light shined brightly for all to see. He cared deeply about people and it showed. CSM Gilmore was a true "Hero of the Faith!" It was an honor to have known and served with him. To the Family and Friends who loved him, you are in my prayers. I pray that God will bless and comfort you all!"
Wayne Eccles of Lawrenceburg, KY
"WOW! This is the first time I've ever felt compelled to say words of expression through the internet, but "The Man" SGM Gilmore saved my life when it seemed like no one else cared if I lived or not. I was a young NCO in Hawaii who needed direction in regards to my career path and SGM Gilmore took it upon himself to put me on the path as a Legal NCO, but he did more than just that.
He cared about the person as much as he did the soldier. Anyone who ever served in the Armed Forces knows there's a difference. A soldier is called upon to serve his country in any fashion that it deems necessary, but you as a person are placed upon this earth to serve you fellow man. The Bible says, "To Love thy neighbor as you do yourself" and this is the point I'm trying to convey to the readers. SGM Gilmore was a my NCOIC, but he was also a big brother figure to me who truly & sincerely cared about my out life's outcome.
To his family and many friends you guys need not EVER worry about his final duty station; his place is with the Lord up in Heaven. SGM earned his wings while serving time here on earth.
**If family are friends should ever need to reach me you can do so by calling: (717) 783-1211.**
My prayers are with the family!"
Anthony "Tony" Robinson Retired Staff Sergeant of Leesville, LA
""To the family of Cornell W. Gilmore ,I am so sorry for the loss of your love one.He died a hero.May you know the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Hopefully we will all meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need someone to pray with you or talk to please call or write my pastor at Gateway Community Church,Rev John B Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd. Covington Ga. 30016 phone 770-787-1015""
"SGM Gilmore,
May the Lord please bless you and keep you and your family. You will always be an inspiration!"
Charles Bucknor of Alexandria, Virginia
"Guess what, I am getting pinned on Firday. Yup, your little E3 is getting her E7. Did you believe that his day would ever come? It has been a long hard road for me, but I have you guiding me every step of the way. Thank you again, if not for you, I would not have made it."
SFC Marley Ganthier of Arlington, VA
"It has taken me a long time to face the reality that my friend is no longer with us. I can still visualize the times we were stationed at Fort Leavenworth, training me to take over his position and the times that our children played together. I miss my friend, but I know you he is in a far better place. I shall and always will be his friend, comrade and brother in arms."
Tracy of Camp Casey, Korea
"”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to the hero’s Mother, Father and/or spouse. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,850 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
This is a gift! We have some wonderful sponsors who help with the costs, and only want you know that we care.
Contact us directly at Projectcompassion@manti.com or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna"
Project Compassion - Kenna of Manti, Utah USA
"I see you every morning when I get to work. Your picture sits to my right. You guide me and bless me everyday. I read your emails to me from time to time and remember why it is that I get up every morning. Thank you for being my light in the darkness. I miss my Papa Bear everyday, but I know you watch me and keep me going. Thank you."
SSG Marley Ganthier of Arlington, VA
"November 7, 2008
To the family of Command Sgt. Maj. Cornell W. Gilmore, I:
Cornell gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org"
Peggy Childers of Carson City, NV
"Cornell we miss you. We thank God for the moments we shared together. Donna, Dawnita and CJ we love you."
The Gilchrist Family of Killeen, TX
"I met SGM while stationed in Hawaii. He was an inspiration to me. He showed me what a true Christian and Soldier was all about. I have been in ministry for over 19 years, but I never met anyone who witnessed more to people all over the world, with just a smile. Donna, you are still in my thoughts and prayers and we will catch up with him together in the clouds."
SFC Geoffry McCormick of Fort Wainwright, Alaska
"GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN."
SSG GANTHIER of ARLINGTON, VA
"Thought of you today and wanted to say hello."
SSG Ganthier of Arlington, VA
"I have VHS tapes of Bro. Gilmore directing the choir at SB Main Post Chapel. Even though our Brother is gone from this earth, he is never forgotten in our hearts. And Donna, Dawnita and CJ, your are never forgotten in our prayers. I will always cherish the memories we shared here in Hawaii. Our only regret is that Bro. Gilmore did not get to " meet up" with us years ago when he came to visit. He said he would be back and that he love and missed us. We feel the same!You all are our spiritual family and we will always love you!"
Andrew , Zsa Zsa and Andreanna Brunson of Mililani, Hawaii
"Today is 4 years since Cornell's death. As I think about the last 4 years without Gil, I am reminded of the 20 plus years that I was blessed to be his wife and friend. We miss you so much today, but we are forever grateful for the wonderful years we had you in our lives. Rest my dear husband until we meet again in glory, with love and sincere appreciation for your sacrifice."
Donna of Virginia
"Brother Gilmore,
You were truly an awesome man of God. You taught me so much and I will never be able to show you how thankful I am that God allowed me to know you.... at least I'll be able to when I see you in Heaven. I pray for the strength of Sister Donna, Dawnite, and C.J..
Con Mucho Amor"
De'ja M Hines of Newport News, VA
"Poppa Bear, is what I still call SGM Gilmore. Snice the first day I met hin at Fort Lewis he was a father, mentor, friend. Always caring about all his Soldiers. And 10 years later, he is the reason that I am still in the Army. I keep his encouraging emails that he sent me when I was first deployed to Kuwait and Iraq in 2002-2003. Those words still get me through my rough days today. It is an honor to have served with him, by him, and for him. I am a better person and NCO because of him. To Donna, Cornell Jr. and Dawnita, you are always in my prayers.
Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace; where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; and where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood, as to understand; to be loved, as to love; for it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life. Amen.
GONE, BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN."
SSG Marley E. Ganthier of Arlington, VA
"CSM Gilmore you are missed. Your smile was as big as your heart.
A true Soldier of God.
Maholo"
Elizabeth Moment of Ft. Jackson, SC
"SGM,
I am truly blessed because of your outstanding leadership, positive direction, and friendship. You are missed."
Matthew Peyton of Dallas, TX
"SGM! I do remember you and thank you for your patriotism -Bastogne Legal"
Fernando Lucero of Denver, CO
"I still haven't forgotten and I will take you with me as I begin my military career."
Pfc. Sean Brown of Savannah, GA/USA
"If ever there was a saint in uniform, it was CSM Gilmore. You were our father when we were far from home, our conscience when we thought we had lost it, and our guiding light in our hours of darkness. May you rest in peace and reap the rewards of heaven. May God bless your family and may He confort your loved ones in your absence. In my heart I know that you are at His side watching over all of us."
Jody Ordonez of Moreno Valley, CA
"I have not been on this site in a long time, but as I read the wonderful comments full of love, I know that Gil has touched a lot of lives. Thanks to all of our wonderful family and friends. I miss Cornell and I miss the Army life, but God has continued to bless me and Dawnita and C.J. We are overcomers by the blood of Christ and we have continued to live! Praise the Lord My love and continued friendship to you all"
Donna of Stafford, Virginia
"Sergeant Major, I am simply honored to know a man of your caliber and character. Your wonderful family and amazing wife are a testament to you. You truly helped me keep my head up and inspired me during some trying times. I truly appreciate that. I know you are watching from above, but I miss you. Thank you for everything."
Troy D. Tyler of Fort Bliss, TX
"CSM Gilmore,
Had I known then, on that fateful day we greeted each other in the halls of the Pentagon and reminisced briefly over our service together in Nuernberg, Germany, that it would be the last time I shook your hand, brother, I probably wouldn't have let go. You are my hero. I will proudly wear your name on my wristband from herobracelets.org. Your legacy will live on and you will not be forgotten.
To your family, I offer my condolences and sincere appreciation for their sacrifice as well."
MSG Gerrold "J" Johnson of Chicago, Illinois
"To my friend Cornell. I think of you often, especially the day in 1981 when I came home on leave from Germany. We stood in front of your mother's house talking. I told you that I loved Germany, and that you should go into the Army just to raise a family in Germany. I never dreamed that you would stay in the Army. But just like being the best back in high school, you became the best at soldiering too. That is the Cornell I will always remember, being the best at what ever he did. Your friend:"
Tyrone Emanuel Murray, Sr. of Baltimore MD
"SGM Gilmore,
I will allways rember you and I driving thru the deserts of Saudi Arabia during the 1st gulf war. You were still just Sergent Gilmore to me, and I was just a Specialist, I remember you and SGT. Durden planing your R&B group. I will also always remember you helping me get back germany, so that I could marry the one I loved. I know that without your help that would have never happened. When I was back in germany I remember hearing you on the radio during a song telling your family that you loved them and your were safe. I remember the hollow feeling I felt at hearing that, and knowing that I was safe and that you were still in harms way. But that was the type of soldier and man you we're. You allways took great concern and care of those you served with. Just only a short few years ago I tried to see you at FT. Lewis, but everytime I came to see you were gone, either on a ftx, or just with your family and wouldn't be back that day. I remember that the last time I tried to see you I learned the you we're now "SGM Gilmore". I'm deeply saddend and cannot belive that you are gone, GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN by me or anyone who served with you.
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY"
Darren Ernst of Spokane, Wa
"I didn't know Mr. Gilmore as long as long as my mother did.The time that I did know him I knew that he was a good person, because he always had a smile on his face. His wife is the same, everytime I see her it's like I know that an angel shines her beauty and wisdom on me. My momma thought of Mr. Gilmore as a father, mentor, friend, and a SOLDIER. All these qualities he truely had, because like my mother says "HE TAKES CARE OF SOLDIERS." Even though he's not here with us physically he's here mentally with the people that he's touched. God bless the family and friend of the GREAT CSM GILMORE.
Love.....
Dominique & SGM Olivia Anderson"
Dominique of Chicago, IL
"I smile as I remember the great times I had with SGM Gilmore. He was a man that could bring sunshine on a cloudy day. I had the pleasure of meeting SGM in October 1992. My wife Tobie and I were assigned to Nurnberg, Germany (Darby Kasern). Within a few short weeks upon our arrival, SGM Gilmore had quietly taken me under his wings and had started to show me how to be a better soldier, husband, and role model. I had to be molded as I was a little rough around the edges, but “Gil” as I sometimes called him was patient. He brought about changes in me that only a man of his caliber could do. He would always tell me, “I got your back”. I served two rotations in Iraq and had just departed in October for the second time when SGM came to visit. I wish I could have had his back to return the many favors. SGM will always be a hero in my book. To Donna, CJ, and Dawnita – Rest assured that “Gil” is at his permanent duty station. May the melodies from heaven continue to rain down on you."
Michael and Tobie Dunbar of Fort belvoir, VA
"It has been a year now big brother and I miss you so very much. It still does not seem like you are gone.
Our love for Donna and the kids will never change. We are here for all of them.
Rest in peace big brother and while you are in heaven take care of my son.
love you and miss you Dee"
of Baton Rouge. LA
"We counted it a privilege and an honor to have known such a "Mighty Man of God". We truly enjoyed the times we were able to be in fellowship with the Gilmore family and to see God use Brother Gilmore in the gift of directing the Schofield Chapel Gospel choir, playing the organ/piano and inspiring others to follow Christ. You touched the lives of so many in the gospel as well as your leadership in the military, always making yourself available to your soldiers. To Donna and the Gilmore children, you are forever in our thoughts and in our prayers. Stay strong and continue to teach and preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and reach those lost souls. God Bless you and Keep You."
Bishop & 1st Lady Henderson of Mililani, Hawaii
"SGM Gilmore,
I will never forget those early mornings we went to PT when we were stationed together in Hawaii. How you always had that warm smile and would always take the time to ask how I was doing. Thanks for letting me play flag football with the JAG Section. I will see you when I get to heaven. Thank for the personal sacrifice you made for or country. I continue to keep your family in my prayers!"
SFC Daniel Kang of Daegu, South Korea
"CSM Cornell Gilmore "Gil":
I remember reporting to the OSJA of 3rd ID in Wurzburg in January 1996 as a young, green 1LT JAG Officer. You greeted me with your irrepressible smile, joy and a hearty "Outstanding!", your trademark saying. During the months that I had the privilege of serving with you before you moved on to Hawaii, I witnessed your enthusiasm, your dedication, and your genuine care and affection for your fellow soldiers. I recall with fondness winning the Division OSJA basketball tournament playing alongside you. You were and are an example to all of how to be a soldier and a patriot, but more importantly a father, a husband and a follower of Christ. I count myself very blessed to have known you. I know that you are with Him. My wife Susan and I are better people because of you, and our thoughts and prayers are with your family."
Brad Wood of Winston-Salem, North Carolina
"Thinking about you all. Stay strong and keep the Faith."
of Fredericksburg, VA
"My buddy, my friend, my mentor, my sounding board, and my brother in Christ. Sergeant Major, you will always be my hero. I miss you so much. Sometimes I still here you saying, "Are we alive and well?" And because I had the opportunity to meet a man of Cornell Gilmore's caliber I can truely say that I am alive and all is well with my soul. God bless the Gilmore Family!! I and my family can never thank you all enough for all you did for us. I am a better husband, father, and soldier because of Cornell W. Gilmore."
Rodney Gilchrist of Columbia , South Carolina
"To the family of SgtMaj Gilmore: Your grief is shared by many. May the love of family and friends comfort and strengthen you in the days ahead. You are in my prayers."
Major B.L. Jackson, USMC, of MCLB Albany, Ga
"I just wanted to say that I just found out about CSM Gilmore's death and I am really sad about it. I remember when my husband reported to him at 1ID Leighton Barracks Germany as a SFC in charge of the JAG there. He was always extremely nice and had wonderful sense of humor. I remember everyone liking him very well and my husband loved working with/for him. My deepest sympathies to his family members. The Army lost a true soldier."
Angela Webb (wife of SSG Calvin Webb, SJA)
"My heart can't near express the void that I have. You taught me not just music but life lessons through your example and your words. You were and still are my mentor and my second father. I WILL keep your memory and your dream alive. CJ and I together will make you proud. All the musicians miss you at Shiloh and we always will. Thank you for everything that you gave me. You really did have me covered."
Sean Brown of Stafford, Virginia/USA
"SGM Gilmore,
Thanks for coming out to Baghdad to see us one last time. Your visits to these horrible places showed your desire to make sure that we, your 27D's, were doing ok and that we had a big brother to call if we needed anything. I wish every day that Donna and the children are coping and are able to go on with school and life in general knowing that their hero won't be coming home. We miss you SGM, we are having an Article 6 visit Monday and I can't believe that it is somebody else coming to see us and that I won't have a chance to hear you say "Greetings", or give me the famous handshake. Don't worry, we will respect him to the fullest and give him the same welcome that we would you. He is filling big shoes, literally, so we will make sure we roll out the welcome mat and make him feel at home.
We will miss you, but remember, we will go forward and continue to do our best to make you proud. We, your Army family will never forget the sacrifice you made, trust me, I will never let them forget even if they try. Thanks again for coming to Baghdad to see us one last time, we won't forget you.
To Donna, your children and the rest of the Gilmore family,
I want to convey my condolences to you on behalf of my family. We wish you all peace in knowing that SGM Gilmore is walking through heaven looking down on us wondering why we cry and telling us to relax, it will be ok, I am just fine. It hurts to lose your SGM, but to lose a husband, a son, a father, I can't fathom it. I just wish for you to remember the good times you shared and remember the great man named Cornell W. Gilmore, husband, son, father, and last but not least, Soldier. I will. Respectfully,"
SGT Josh Quinton of Vilseck, Germany
"Simply missing you dad."
Cornell Gilmore II of Stafford, VA
"Sergeant Major Gilmore, goodbye soldier and thank you. You are my hero."
Bill of Houston, Texas
"To the Gilmores, his memory is not forgotten and he will always have a place in our hearts. I remember SGM coming into my office and saying, 'Greetings Private Foster.' He will be missed but not forgotten."
Andre Foster of formerly stationed at Fort Lewis, WA
"We Will NEVER FORGET !"
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness, and we are remembering your family in your loss and your deep grief. Your HERO, Cornell, will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "
"Thank you Cornell Gilmore I, you will not be forgotten. Your bravery goes beyond words. I want to express my deepest gratitude for your sacrifice. To the family and friends, my prayers and deep condolences in your loss. May God strengthen you from knowing that fellow Americans and people around the world care about you and grieve with you in your loss. God bless you all. A very appreciative fellow American,"
Leo Titus of Grayslake, Illinios
"I was a 19 year old specialist in 1997 stationed at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. I was a member of the Schofeild Chapel Choir.I was young and torn between using my gift of voice for God or continue to live a life that I know God had not set out for me. Brother Gilmore, was one of the few who was not swayed by my immature attitude toward life. Instead he gave words of kindness and encouragement. He smiled and simply informed me to let God use me. He always encouraged me to sing even when I "didn't want to". I remember his smile when I was sitting in the corner frowning, immediately I would perfect my disposition and "do better" because his greatness was contagious. He sang with ease, he taught music with ease and loved others with ease. He and his wonderful wife Donna were like the two angels. I would watch them praise and say to my self,"I can't wait to be like that." To have that joy. Over much time,prayer and more prayer I have become a better person, a true singer and a praiser because Bro. Gilmore believed in me,rough edges and all. He has blessed my life tremendously. His kind and anointed words helped me to use the gift I was blessed with to uplift the Lord.He was a guide and gift to so many. I am thankful to God to have had a chance to know him. Words can't describe how much he is missed."
Kiona Manning of Columbus, Georgia
"To the Gilmore family, I express to you my deepest sympathy for the loss of brother cornell Gilmore. I feel extremely lucky and blessed to have worked with him in the Gospel Choir at Fort Lewis, Washington.. He will be deeply missed!!"
SSG Randall Kelly of Fort Lewis, Washington
"Husband, father, soldier! Cornell was a mighty man of God first and foremost. I am heartbroken, but I know God specializses in mending broken hearts. Cornell was a big man with an even bigger heart. He made everyone feel special and he was that way all the time. I am truly blessed to have been married to him for 21 years. To all of the soldiers, civilians, family and friends who have a special story to tell, please send me a copy of your story. These special golden nuggets are comforting. My e-mail address is magil922@msn.com To the military members who are serving our country - THANK YOU! You are truly special and I pray for all of you."
Donna Gilmore of Stafford, Virginia, USA
"I had the honor to meet CSM Gilmore once, it was then that I realized that I made the correct choice to enlist in the Army to become a JAG Corp soldier. To all of his family and friends, I would like to express my deepest condolences, it was truly an honor to serve with him."
PFC Priscilla M. Barron of Ft. Ricahrdson, Alaska
"To the family and friends of Command Sergeant Major Cornell Gilmore I:
May God's grace be with you during your time of grief. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and we feel your loss and share in your sorrow. Bless Cornell for the sacrifice he has made to make a better life for the rest of us."
The Ford Family of Wells, Nevada
"To the family and friends of Command Sergeant Major Cornell Gilmore I:
I am saddened by the loss of your loved one. He will always be remembered as a hero for fighting for freedom. I hope that this website will be a source of comfort and encouragement for you during this difficult time, and in the future as you recall the memories of Cornell, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia