Ashes to Space

Retired Col. Gregory Gilles, former 50th Space Wing commander, speaks about his son's ashes launching to space from Vandenberg Space Force Base, Calif., March 4, 2024. A small capsule, carrying Brandon Gilles' remains, was among the 53 payloads placed aboard the spacecraft. Gillies and his family were invited to witness the launch, providing an emotional send-off as his loved ones shared a final farewell.