Greg Tily

Greg Tily’s military journey began in an unexpected way. During high school, Greg had dreams of playing Division I lacrosse in college, but a broken elbow derailed his plans. He found a new path when West Point, which was recruiting him for lacrosse, introduced him to the military. Influenced by a friend’s story about flying helicopters, Greg set his sights on becoming an aviator. Graduating from West Point in 1998, Greg entered flight school in Alabama, where he trained to become an Apache helicopter pilot. Over the course of his 20-year military career, Greg served in several key roles, rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

His time as an Apache pilot was marked by intense deployments, including being part of the first push into Baghdad during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003. Greg’s role in the military allowed him to deploy the Apache to its fullest capabilities, protecting troops on the ground and playing a crucial part in combat operations. He flew in some of the most dangerous environments, including Iraq and Afghanistan, where he completed multiple deployments. In 2007, Greg commanded a line company of Apache helicopters, coordinating missions across Iraq. His leadership ensured that troops on the ground were kept safe, with many soldiers feeling secure simply by hearing the sound of his helicopters overhead.

Despite the challenges and risks of combat, Greg’s career was marked by a deep commitment to his fellow soldiers. He received multiple commendations, including two Bronze Stars and four Air Medals, for his bravery and service in combat. Yet, for Greg, the most rewarding part of his military career was knowing that his presence in the air meant fewer casualties on the ground. His time in Afghanistan, in particular, was less active in terms of combat, but the success of his missions was measured in the safety of his troops.

After retiring from the military in 2018, Greg faced a new challenge: transitioning to civilian life. Through the “Hire Our Heroes” program, he explored different career paths and initially considered becoming a realtor. However, a conversation with a friend led him to the mortgage industry, where he found his niche as a VA loan expert. Specializing in VA loans allowed Greg to stay connected to the military community, helping veterans navigate the complexities of home financing. He takes pride in educating veterans about their benefits and dispelling common misconceptions about VA loans. His work ensures that veterans can purchase homes with favorable terms, often with no down payment, and he has helped numerous families achieve homeownership.

Greg’s personal life is equally fulfilling. He is a father to two daughters who are involved in competitive cheerleading, a commitment that requires five days a week of practice. Greg finds joy in supporting his daughters’ passion for cheerleading, and he appreciates the teamwork and camaraderie they gain from the sport. He and his family now reside in Florida, where they are actively involved in the local community.

As a vice chair of the Pinellas County Veterans Association, Greg continues his dedication to serving the veteran community. He aims to expand the association’s reach across Florida, ensuring that veterans have access to the resources and support they need. His involvement with the local Chamber of Commerce also reflects his desire to help veterans transition to civilian life and thrive in their new careers.

Greg’s story is one of service, leadership, and resilience. From flying Apaches in combat zones to helping veterans secure homes, Greg has consistently demonstrated a commitment to others. His military experience has shaped him into a leader who values teamwork, responsibility, and service above self. Through his work with veterans and his community, Greg continues to make a difference, ensuring that the bonds forged in the military extend far beyond the battlefield.