Gilbert Thad Gembacz

August 1, 1947 – July 8, 2025

Special Forces Association Chapter 78 mourns the passing of longtime member Gilbert Thad “The Judge” Gembacz, who died on July 8, 2025. A retired U.S. Army Colonel and former U.S. Immigration Judge, Thad was widely respected for his integrity, generosity, and quiet service to others.

Thad’s military career spanned 30 years and included training with Special Forces, graduation from Infantry Officer Candidate School and Airborne School, and induction into the Officer Candidate School Hall of Fame. Following active duty, he served as a United States Immigration Judge from 1996 to 2008 and later taught asylum law at the National Judicial College and Southwestern Law School.

An active member of Chapter 78, Thad regularly volunteered at events and provided generous support for chapter initiatives, including serving as the major donor for the Special Forces Readiness Evaluation (SFRE) at CSU Fullerton’s Roy Lopez Army ROTC Obstacle Course.

Reflecting his ongoing generosity and compassion, just six days after the fall of Kabul in 2021, Thad met Nimo—now Project Manager of Refugee Housing for Affordable Community Living (ACL)—who spoke at the August Chapter 78 meeting, describing the dangers our Afghan allies were facing. Deeply moved by Nimo’s account, Thad connected ACL with immigration attorneys, funded legal efforts and supplies, and advised on the immigration process to help bring Afghan families to safety. His guidance continues to influence ongoing efforts, including the process to secure entry for Nimo’s brother, who we are hoping will soon join the ACL Afghan refugee communities in Mojave and Needles as their resident electrician.

Though Thad later relocated to Arizona, he remained closely connected to Chapter 78 and was always warmly welcomed when he attended meetings during visits to Southern California.

Funeral mass and interment were held at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles on July 31, 2025. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Wounded Warrior Project and Tunnel to Towers.

Thad’s wonderfully friendly face, as well as his loyalty, service, and generosity, will be deeply missed. The members of Chapter 78 extend their condolences to his wife, Camille, and his sister, Kayce Morton.