Happy Birthday Gary - you will always be remembered on your special day. Know
that we continue to keep you in our thoughts at all times. Mary Harp
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Happy Birthday Gary
You are in our thoughts especially today. I can't help but think of what we would be doing today as it is your 40th, it would be so much fun. I would be calling you old, and you would tell me that "it's OK because i will never be as old as you Mum"
I love you Gary and miss you more than words can express.
Mum
I love you Gary and miss you more than words can express.
Mum
instructions on how to leave a message
if anyone would like to leave a message here you do need the login information. To get the info just send me an email. I'm Gary's brother Phillip and my email is phillipfullerton@gmail.com.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
for SLIM
I’ve shared this story with many people already, but it’s so powerful I’m sure I’ll be sharing it with people the rest of my life.
Three years ago yesterday, on July 21, 2004, I lost the best friend a guy could have, a man I’d known for seventeen years. He helped me through Marine Corps Officer Candidate School and was always there for me no matter what. Gary and I survived mostly good times, but some bad ones too. One of the sad ironies was that losing him was the toughest ordeal I’d ever been through and I didn’t have him to help me through it. I think everyone who knew him felt that way.
Well, I was wrong about that as I would soon learn.
I completed my memoir in December 2004 and I dedicated it to Gary, using only his aviation callsign, “for Slim.” The memoir was published in June 2005; after spending the rest of 2005 traveling and promoting it, I decided to move from Atlanta to New York.
I visited Manhattan in the middle of January to look for an apartment and a job. One evening, while taking the ‘C’ train uptown, I had a sudden panic attack. The doubts came pouring in like never before. The critical voice in my head went into hyperdrive saying things like, “Who do you think you are, moving to Manhattan? You don’t have a job, you don’t have a place to live, you don’t have many friends in NYC, it’s the most expensive cut-throat city in America and you’re just a hick from Piedmont, South Carolina, that town will destroy you!” etc., etc., etc. I broke out into a cold, frightened sweat, my lungs constricting with each breath.
Just as suddenly, a wave of calm washed over me and a much louder, stronger and more confident voice banished the doubts, saying:
“You’re going to be okay, Rich. You’re doing the right thing. Don’t be afraid.”
The voice was so obvious, I wondered if other people on the train heard it. I looked up and to my utter and total astonishment, I was staring directly at this image:
Three years ago yesterday, on July 21, 2004, I lost the best friend a guy could have, a man I’d known for seventeen years. He helped me through Marine Corps Officer Candidate School and was always there for me no matter what. Gary and I survived mostly good times, but some bad ones too. One of the sad ironies was that losing him was the toughest ordeal I’d ever been through and I didn’t have him to help me through it. I think everyone who knew him felt that way.
Well, I was wrong about that as I would soon learn.
I completed my memoir in December 2004 and I dedicated it to Gary, using only his aviation callsign, “for Slim.” The memoir was published in June 2005; after spending the rest of 2005 traveling and promoting it, I decided to move from Atlanta to New York.
I visited Manhattan in the middle of January to look for an apartment and a job. One evening, while taking the ‘C’ train uptown, I had a sudden panic attack. The doubts came pouring in like never before. The critical voice in my head went into hyperdrive saying things like, “Who do you think you are, moving to Manhattan? You don’t have a job, you don’t have a place to live, you don’t have many friends in NYC, it’s the most expensive cut-throat city in America and you’re just a hick from Piedmont, South Carolina, that town will destroy you!” etc., etc., etc. I broke out into a cold, frightened sweat, my lungs constricting with each breath.
Just as suddenly, a wave of calm washed over me and a much louder, stronger and more confident voice banished the doubts, saying:
“You’re going to be okay, Rich. You’re doing the right thing. Don’t be afraid.”
The voice was so obvious, I wondered if other people on the train heard it. I looked up and to my utter and total astonishment, I was staring directly at this image:
Fortunately, I’d purchased a new cellphone and, once I got over my shock, snapped a picture of it. I’ll carry this image with me to remind me of a few important things:
There is a bigger purpose to all of this.
We never really lose the ones we love.
Coincidence? You can choose to think of it that way if you want; I’ve chosen otherwise.
Major Gary Fullerton was killed in the line of duty, serving his country valiantly when the F-18 jet he was piloting and another F-18 collided over the Columbia River on the Washington-Oregon border near the wonderful town of Arlington, Oregon. The citizens dedicated a monument to Gary and the other Marine in his jet that you can visit if you’re driving by on I-84. We’ll probably never know the cause of the collision; I think it was just Gary’s time to go, that his work here was done. He may be gone, but he’ll never leave us.
Post a message here or email us at GaryRFullerton@gmail.com
You can donate to the Clemson Scholarship fund in his honor here, post a message or check out a slideshow of pictures from his life, which was brief, but full.
Semper Fi,
Rich Merritt
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Posted by: Philip Lee()
Thursday, March 22, 2007at 15:03:07
Subject: VMFA-314
I met 1st Lt Fullerton when I was with the Black Knights. I was also the FNG for the Airframes shop, a lowly LCpl, performing my turn on duty at the Ready Room when I first met him. I remember thinking to myself, here is a guy who is soft-spoken and skinny like me, nothing at all like the pilots' image that I've had from watching "The Great Santini" or "Topgun". He spoke to me about his flying experience briefly, a passing moment which in itself was not significant at all, but now I look back and remember clearly. It was then that I realized by speaking to him, that fighter pilots, Marine officers, and Marines, come in all shapes and sizes, and that some are really down to earth and very approachable. I've wondered from time to time, where some of the people that I've met in the course of my life ended up. It is sad to have learned your fate this way, but I am comforted to know you left this world doing the thing you loved most and there are people who remember you fondly. Semper Fi.
Thursday, March 22, 2007at 15:03:07
Subject: VMFA-314
I met 1st Lt Fullerton when I was with the Black Knights. I was also the FNG for the Airframes shop, a lowly LCpl, performing my turn on duty at the Ready Room when I first met him. I remember thinking to myself, here is a guy who is soft-spoken and skinny like me, nothing at all like the pilots' image that I've had from watching "The Great Santini" or "Topgun". He spoke to me about his flying experience briefly, a passing moment which in itself was not significant at all, but now I look back and remember clearly. It was then that I realized by speaking to him, that fighter pilots, Marine officers, and Marines, come in all shapes and sizes, and that some are really down to earth and very approachable. I've wondered from time to time, where some of the people that I've met in the course of my life ended up. It is sad to have learned your fate this way, but I am comforted to know you left this world doing the thing you loved most and there are people who remember you fondly. Semper Fi.
Posted by: Phillip()
Friday, December 8, 2006at 12:32:18
Subject: Happy Birthday Gary
Happy Birthday Gary!
Friday, December 8, 2006at 12:32:18
Subject: Happy Birthday Gary
Happy Birthday Gary!
Posted by: Michael F Parker Sperry(parker_sperry@yahoo.com''2006111515501811)
Friday, July 21, 2006at 08:13:53
Subject: On the Anniversary
It was 5:30am today, I had 30 more pages to read in Rich Merritt book, I was so shocked and sadded to learn in the last few pages of the book, that Rich's best friend had passed away. I (like Rich) shed actually a few tears after reading so much about this obviously terrific individaul that played such an important role in developing the man that Rich Merritt is today. I futher was saddened, that TODAY is the 2nd anniversary of the death of Gary - Once again, a tear came to my eye when I learned that thru this website. I don't know what compelled me to go searching for a garyfullerton website, but something made me do it... probably a SIGN like so many signs that had been revealed to Rich. I am so sorry for everyones loss and feel your pain today. God Bless you All... as he Does!
Friday, July 21, 2006at 08:13:53
Subject: On the Anniversary
It was 5:30am today, I had 30 more pages to read in Rich Merritt book, I was so shocked and sadded to learn in the last few pages of the book, that Rich's best friend had passed away. I (like Rich) shed actually a few tears after reading so much about this obviously terrific individaul that played such an important role in developing the man that Rich Merritt is today. I futher was saddened, that TODAY is the 2nd anniversary of the death of Gary - Once again, a tear came to my eye when I learned that thru this website. I don't know what compelled me to go searching for a garyfullerton website, but something made me do it... probably a SIGN like so many signs that had been revealed to Rich. I am so sorry for everyones loss and feel your pain today. God Bless you All... as he Does!
Posted by: Paul(doltons@xln.co.uk)
Tuesday, July 4, 2006at 07:32:22
Subject: Paths
I have seen lots of kinds words from people that never met Gary. I'm not sure what I want to say but here goes. Although Gary was younger than me, from a very early age (11) I looked up to him and realised that he was going to be special. Gary new from a yound age what he wanted, following that path was not going to be easy but enjoyable due to the goal at the end. Later on in life I would tell him how he was so smart etc etc and his reply would be simply that he had chosen a different path and was no better than me. That used to make me feel so good. Gary was so adaptable that he could following my path for while but then get straight back on his track. I hope you can understand what I have been trying to say in these past few lines. Gary and I knew that our paths were going to join when we retired. The plan was to get a sail boat and explore the oceans. I would teach him to sail, Alison would cook for us, but I cannot remember what Gary's job was, probably convert any one we met to his way of thinking. I'm still a few years from this but its still the plan.Gary I know our paths will join again and I plan to have lots of great stories to tell.Luv Bruv
Tuesday, July 4, 2006at 07:32:22
Subject: Paths
I have seen lots of kinds words from people that never met Gary. I'm not sure what I want to say but here goes. Although Gary was younger than me, from a very early age (11) I looked up to him and realised that he was going to be special. Gary new from a yound age what he wanted, following that path was not going to be easy but enjoyable due to the goal at the end. Later on in life I would tell him how he was so smart etc etc and his reply would be simply that he had chosen a different path and was no better than me. That used to make me feel so good. Gary was so adaptable that he could following my path for while but then get straight back on his track. I hope you can understand what I have been trying to say in these past few lines. Gary and I knew that our paths were going to join when we retired. The plan was to get a sail boat and explore the oceans. I would teach him to sail, Alison would cook for us, but I cannot remember what Gary's job was, probably convert any one we met to his way of thinking. I'm still a few years from this but its still the plan.Gary I know our paths will join again and I plan to have lots of great stories to tell.Luv Bruv
Posted by: Tony Self(tonyself@charter.net)
Tuesday, June 27, 2006at 17:31:08
Subject: A great smile
I meet Gary when he was about 12 years old, Gary took Kung-Fu from me for about 3 years. I read from above post that some of you never meet Gary. If you go to the 7th picture of him in a blue shirt smiling, thats the Gary I knew for 3 years.Gary ALWAYS and I mean ALWAYS smiled. Try teaching self- defense to someone who is smiling. I would try to make him mad to get the smile off his face but mostly we both would start laughing. I can say that Gary was a great kid (was the time I knew him ) and I think of him a lot. Thats how I found this site. as I was sitting here thinking about Gary.The first thing I think I will see when we meet over there will be his smile. Tony
Tuesday, June 27, 2006at 17:31:08
Subject: A great smile
I meet Gary when he was about 12 years old, Gary took Kung-Fu from me for about 3 years. I read from above post that some of you never meet Gary. If you go to the 7th picture of him in a blue shirt smiling, thats the Gary I knew for 3 years.Gary ALWAYS and I mean ALWAYS smiled. Try teaching self- defense to someone who is smiling. I would try to make him mad to get the smile off his face but mostly we both would start laughing. I can say that Gary was a great kid (was the time I knew him ) and I think of him a lot. Thats how I found this site. as I was sitting here thinking about Gary.The first thing I think I will see when we meet over there will be his smile. Tony
Posted by: nephew liam duncan(liam.duncan1@ntlworld.com)
Monday, February 13, 2006at 09:40:19
Subject: Gary Fullerton
when i was a boy i really wanted to be a pilot and still now in some sort of way RAF or the marines. when i heard about the crash it really shocked me. but it hasnt affected my future of any sort of way and i feel like im carrying on flying for gary because i knew he really enjoyed flying he loved it. from my mum and dad.what they told me.when i went to the US i spent alot of time with my grandad and grandma a gary it was really fun we went to the tar pits in los angoles,seaworld and disney. wot i really enjoyed most is when my mum and dad went to see heather and her plays.me roxanne and gary went to the mall and it was empty allmost we went into the arcarde and played on loads of games getting loads of gifts. gary got near 200 i got 100 roxy got 50 as you can see he has had some practise.i really loved gary and i will always remeber him.love liam
Monday, February 13, 2006at 09:40:19
Subject: Gary Fullerton
when i was a boy i really wanted to be a pilot and still now in some sort of way RAF or the marines. when i heard about the crash it really shocked me. but it hasnt affected my future of any sort of way and i feel like im carrying on flying for gary because i knew he really enjoyed flying he loved it. from my mum and dad.what they told me.when i went to the US i spent alot of time with my grandad and grandma a gary it was really fun we went to the tar pits in los angoles,seaworld and disney. wot i really enjoyed most is when my mum and dad went to see heather and her plays.me roxanne and gary went to the mall and it was empty allmost we went into the arcarde and played on loads of games getting loads of gifts. gary got near 200 i got 100 roxy got 50 as you can see he has had some practise.i really loved gary and i will always remeber him.love liam
Posted by: Tammy Taylor(greg_taylor85@yahoo.com)
Thursday, December 8, 2005at 20:45:57
Subject: Happy Birthday Slim
It was a beautiful day here today and I was able to visit Slim and place flowers for Norah and Graham. When we lived together he wouldn't even tell us about his birthday since he didn't want anyone to make a big deal about it, so I hope he didn't mind my birthday wishes. Still love you and miss you Slim. Not a day goes by when you are not in my thoughts. Katherine talks about you every day. Next to Greg, you are her number one hero. Here's to you...
Thursday, December 8, 2005at 20:45:57
Subject: Happy Birthday Slim
It was a beautiful day here today and I was able to visit Slim and place flowers for Norah and Graham. When we lived together he wouldn't even tell us about his birthday since he didn't want anyone to make a big deal about it, so I hope he didn't mind my birthday wishes. Still love you and miss you Slim. Not a day goes by when you are not in my thoughts. Katherine talks about you every day. Next to Greg, you are her number one hero. Here's to you...
Posted by: Carolyn()
Monday, October 17, 2005at 08:04:56
Subject: He lives in our hearts
It's so good to look at these pictures. I can close my eyes and see his smile and attention he always gave when you were talking as if you were the only person in the room. I especially like the picture of Gary and Chuck, it makes me smile. Gary, you are missed.
Monday, October 17, 2005at 08:04:56
Subject: He lives in our hearts
It's so good to look at these pictures. I can close my eyes and see his smile and attention he always gave when you were talking as if you were the only person in the room. I especially like the picture of Gary and Chuck, it makes me smile. Gary, you are missed.
Posted by: Tammy Taylor()
Wednesday, September 14, 2005at 21:18:18
Subject: Special Friend
I cannot think of anyone more deserving of a tribute as wonderful and loving as this. Slim was so many different things to so many of us, but we could all call him a friend. A more dear friend I doubt I will ever know. We still miss you Slim.
Wednesday, September 14, 2005at 21:18:18
Subject: Special Friend
I cannot think of anyone more deserving of a tribute as wonderful and loving as this. Slim was so many different things to so many of us, but we could all call him a friend. A more dear friend I doubt I will ever know. We still miss you Slim.
Posted by: Willard A. Warford(warford@socket. net)
Monday, September 12, 2005at 14:05:38
Subject: Wonderful Man!
Having read the book from Rich Merritt, I feel that the story of Gary Fullerton protrays the story that Gary touched the lives of many people. I know he did mine! The calls every week home to his parents shows the love he must have had for you. I am a WWII Vet also, but did not have the chance to pilot a plane. I think your Memorial pictures protrayed his wonderful live. He gave an early sacrifice of his life. What a Man!
Monday, September 12, 2005at 14:05:38
Subject: Wonderful Man!
Having read the book from Rich Merritt, I feel that the story of Gary Fullerton protrays the story that Gary touched the lives of many people. I know he did mine! The calls every week home to his parents shows the love he must have had for you. I am a WWII Vet also, but did not have the chance to pilot a plane. I think your Memorial pictures protrayed his wonderful live. He gave an early sacrifice of his life. What a Man!
Posted by: Ray Workman(raywsfo@yahoo.com)
Monday, September 12, 2005at 13:22:24
Subject: Remembering Gary Fullerton
I never had the honor to meet Gary, but yet I felt as if I knew him from the wonderful book by Rich Merritt.Gary was a true friend, and also an unconditional friend.What a great man he was and will always be remembered.
Monday, September 12, 2005at 13:22:24
Subject: Remembering Gary Fullerton
I never had the honor to meet Gary, but yet I felt as if I knew him from the wonderful book by Rich Merritt.Gary was a true friend, and also an unconditional friend.What a great man he was and will always be remembered.
Posted by: Ken Schaar(krzwhtman@cox.net)
Sunday, September 11, 2005at 17:47:18
Subject: Condolences
i was in Yuma at the same time as Maj. Fullerton , i worked with the fighter squadrons alot and the Piolts were always good people . He even looks familiar , my sympothies for your loss.Semper FidelisKen Schaar
Sunday, September 11, 2005at 17:47:18
Subject: Condolences
i was in Yuma at the same time as Maj. Fullerton , i worked with the fighter squadrons alot and the Piolts were always good people . He even looks familiar , my sympothies for your loss.Semper FidelisKen Schaar
Posted by: Martha Brown(sono000@hotmail.com)
Saturday, September 10, 2005at 09:03:17
Subject: Remembering Gary
I loved looking at all his younger pictures! Our family misshim very much and will always remember how kind he wasto us, my parents, who also thought so much of him. What agreat man he was, and I know you are so proud of him.
Saturday, September 10, 2005at 09:03:17
Subject: Remembering Gary
I loved looking at all his younger pictures! Our family misshim very much and will always remember how kind he wasto us, my parents, who also thought so much of him. What agreat man he was, and I know you are so proud of him.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
A SAINT, a Brother, a Friend
Message Board: View Message
Posted by: Rich Merritt(rich@richmerritt.com)
Wednesday, September 7, 2005at 19:35:04
Subject: A SAINT, a Brother, a Friend
Meeting Gary Fullerton in July 1987 was the best thing that ever happened to me. He came along at a time in my life when I was devastated by things that had happened and he helped me rebuild my life. For the next 17 years, we were never far apart, even though a continent or an ocean might have been between us. Gary encouraged me to be the best I could be, and patiently and kindly corrected me when I was wrong, never in a condescending way, but in a way that let me know that no matter what stupid things I did, he was my friend. I will miss you Gary, at least until we meet again!
Posted by: Rich Merritt(rich@richmerritt.com)
Wednesday, September 7, 2005at 19:35:04
Subject: A SAINT, a Brother, a Friend
Meeting Gary Fullerton in July 1987 was the best thing that ever happened to me. He came along at a time in my life when I was devastated by things that had happened and he helped me rebuild my life. For the next 17 years, we were never far apart, even though a continent or an ocean might have been between us. Gary encouraged me to be the best I could be, and patiently and kindly corrected me when I was wrong, never in a condescending way, but in a way that let me know that no matter what stupid things I did, he was my friend. I will miss you Gary, at least until we meet again!
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