Abu Dhabi Incident: In the early 1990s, Gibbs was stationed as an NCIS agent in Abu Dhabi. He was involved in a mission to apprehend a terrorist leader, but the operation went wrong, resulting in the deaths of his entire team. Gibbs's guilt over this failure contributed to his signature brand of aggressive investigation tactics.
Shannon and Kelly: Gibbs had a loving wife named Shannon and a young daughter named Kelly. While he was on a case in Mexico, his family became the target of revenge killings by a drug lord he was investigating. Shannon and Kelly were brutally murdered in their home. This tragic loss traumatized Gibbs and instilled a deep-seated need for justice and a strict adherence to NCIS protocol.
Mike Franks: Mike Franks was a retired NCIS agent and Gibbs's former mentor. Gibbs idolized Franks, and their relationship had a profound impact on Gibbs's career and personal life. Franks taught Gibbs the importance of following one's gut instinct and staying true to oneself.
The Basement: Gibbs has a secretive basement beneath his home that serves as his personal sanctuary. It's a cluttered space filled with relics of past cases and items with sentimental value. The basement represents Gibbs's private struggle with his traumatic past and his need for solitude.
"Rules" and "Rule 91": Gibbs is known for his unwritten set of rules that he believes guide the work of NCIS. One such rule is "Rule 91," which states that "Never date a co-worker." This rule stems from Gibbs's complex relationship with his former colleague and lover, Diane Sterling, which resulted in heartbreak.
The "Family" Dynamic: While Gibbs is a demanding boss, he also views his team members as his "family." He protects and supports them fiercely, often going to extraordinary lengths to ensure their safety and well-being.
Overall, Gibbs's past experiences have contributed to his hardened exterior and his unwavering dedication to justice. Despite his personal struggles, Gibbs remains a complex and compassionate character who often provides guidance and support to his team in their own moments of crisis.