Tim Grebs is a Bethlehem native and youngest son of Richard and Cynthia Grebs. He has an older brother, Todd.

Tim graduated from Freedom HS and graduated summa cum laude from Purdue University as a mechanical engineer. While at Purdue, he met his future wife, Celia Byrnes, who is from Indianapolis, Ind.

After college, Tim and his wife were stationed at Columbus AFB, Columbus, Miss., where he graduated pilot training and was stationed there as an Instructor pilot on the T-37 and T-6 aircraft. They had a son, Samuel, while at Columbus.

His next move took him to Davis Montham in Tucson, Ariz., to learn how to be a “Hog driver,” flying the A-10 Thunderbolt commonly known as the “Warthog.”

After qualification he and family were relocated to Moody AFB, Valdosta, Ga., with the 75th FS TigerSharks. While at Moody, their first daughter, Julia, was born. Tim was promoted to captain and was sent overseas to Afghanistan flying the A-10 as a Lead Combat Rated Pilot. While in AFG he received an air medal for heroic action.

After service in Afghanistan, he returned to Moody, but was subsequently sent to Davis Monthan AFB to serve as a A-10 instructor pilot with the Dragons of the 357th FS. After a short time in Tucson, he and other pilots were sent to South Korea as part of the continued U.S. presence there. Upon return, their next child, Caroline, was born.

“Major Tim” has held many roles while at Davis Montham, culminating in being assigned as the Commander for the 355th Force Support Squadron. In addition, through the three-plus years at Davis Montham, Tim somehow found time to obtain an MBA from Indiana University, Indiana.

As one can tell from the above article, Tim is a humble person, always doing for others and providing for his family. On his final flight day, Colonel Bruce Smith presented him with a Meritourious Service Medal for improvements and espirit de corps he brought to the 355th FSS. Tim implemented changes that will save the tax payers $1.5 million. Col. Smith said Tim is a caring individual, husband, father and friend. He is always watching out and teaching others and the USAF will miss his expertise and talents.

After 11 1/2 years of active duty, Tim and Celia thought it best for him and family to move on to the next chapter that life brings. He and family are looking to relocate to the Chicago area, where Tim is searching for a job with a focus on “Operational Excellence” and where Celia may work as a pharmacist.

Chicago is a bit closer to Bethlehem and Indianapolis so family and friends can be seen more often.