CAPT Christopher John Gierhart, USN, (Ret.), 50 of Hollywood, MD passed away on July 5, 2026. Born in Montgomery, AL on June 20, 1976, he is the son of Loran William Gierhart and Adra Anne (nee: Wood) Gierhart of Buda, TX.
He is a 1994 graduate of McArthur High School in San Antonio, TX and a proud graduate of Texas A&M University earning a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. He served 4 years in the Corps of Cadets. In May 1999, he entered the U.S. Navy, earning his flight wings in June 2000 and his call name, “Nuts.” Having spent most of his professional career in the cockpit of Navy jets, “Nuts” was the consummate professional who thrived in the dynamic world of Naval Aviation. From his earliest days, he strived to make those around him better. As an instructor, he was tasked with guiding new pilots through their first aircraft carrier landings in the EA-6B Prowler. This critical duty is reserved solely for those with the technical skill and patient temperament required to guide inexperienced aviators through the high-stakes environment of night-time carrier landings. Nuts handled this assignment with the trademark professionalism that defined his career, and many pilots owe their success to his early guidance.
From November 2013 to November 2015 Nuts served on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, where he directly advised CJCS on all matters related to Syria and Counter-ISIL in preparation for meetings of the National Security Council (NSC), which included the attendance of the President of the United States. Later, he commanded the VAQ-142 “Gray Wolves,” leading more than 160 officers, Chiefs, and sailors through multiple training cycles and deployments. Nuts’ love of country and dedication to his people forged “The Wolves” into one of the premier squadrons in the Navy. His leadership was reflected in their success in both training and combat. A tremendous shipmate and leader, his legacy lives on in all those who had the honor of serving alongside him.
Nuts proudly served his country for 25 dedicated years, before his retirement as a Captain. He logged over 3300 flight hours, 600+ hours in combat, and 801 carrier arrest landings. During his service he earned many medals, ribbons, accommodations and accolades. He earned his Master’s degree in National Security Policy Studies in 2013 from the Naval Air War College. He was currently employed as a Senior Analyst with 2 Circle, Inc.
Chris was a devoted and loving father, supporting his sons through sporting events, school events, etc. He enjoyed camping with them and cheering on his alma mater, Texas A&M, hiking, golfing and boating. Along with his love of all things Texas A&M University, he was also an avid fan of Star Wars. Lauren and Chris were enjoying life together as a blended family. He was a great support system of Nicholas’ (Lauren’s son) through high school, cheering him on at all his football and lacrosse games.
In addition to his parents; Chris is also survived by his sons, Hunter Gierhart and Grant Gierhart; siblings: Marni Martinez (Beto) of Buda, TX and Laura Combs of Berwick, Nova Scotia; nieces: Viviana Martinez, Nadia Martinez and Deborah Combs; fiancé, Lauren Copenhaver and her son Nicholas Copenhaver; and many extended family and friends.
The Memorial Service will be held on Monday, August 3, at 9:30 AM at Castle Hills Christian Church, 6209 West Avenue, San Antonio, TX. Internment/Burial will be at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery at 11:15 AM.
Memorial contributions may be made in Chris’ memory to Hollywood Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 7, Hollywood, MD 20636 and The Wingman Foundation, 2248 Meridian Blvd., Suite H, Minden, NV 89423 or www.thewingmanfoundation.org.
Condolences to the family may be left at www.brinsfieldsfuneral.com.
Arrangements by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A., Leonardtown, MD.
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