Gregory Jess Gonsioroski, better known as " Gonzo," started his firefighting career as a mechanic with Neptune Aviation until he earned the rest of his flight ratings in 2000. He served as 1st officer (co-pilot) on the P2-V Neptune. Greg was known as a gentle giant who always put others first. He was a devoted and compassionate husband and father. Off duty, he enjoyed hunting, carpentry, and spending time with family and friends. Dispatched to the Smitty Fire by the United States Forest Service, Greg died in an air tanker crash September 1, 2008.