Spouse of fallen veteran speaking in Lubbock

LUBBOCK — The spouse of a fallen veteran is speaking about the sacrifices for freedom.

Ginger Gilbert Ravella, an alumni from Texas Tech University, will speak from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at the university’s McKenzie-Merket Alumni Center.

Ravella is the spouse of the deceased Major Troy Gilbert, another alumni from Texas Tech, who gave his life in 2006 in Iraq.

“It’s about recognizing Major Troy Gilbert and the sacrifices he made,” said Lou Ortiz, director of Military Veterans Programs at Texas Tech, “to recognize him as a Texas Tech graduate from 1993 and bring recognition to those Red Raiders who have served their country.”

Ortiz said Ravella spent 10 years waiting to find out if Gilbert’s body would be discovered. It was Oct. 3 of last year when his body was returned.

“It’s to show that freedom does have a price and this is it,” said Ortiz. “Not just for the servicemen but for the family members.”

Ortiz said Ravella will discuss her family as well as the Folds of Honor, a non-profit organization which awards scholarships to family members of fallen and wounded soldiers.

An RSVP deadline for a head count was Friday, but Ortiz said those interested in attending are still encouraged to do so via [email protected].

The event is free and includes finger foods, drinks and a cash bar.