Navy Gold Star Coordinator Support

From the moment he opened his eyes each morning, Lance Cpl. Eric Levi Ward surged with vivacious life and energy.  Even in combat, those who loved him spoke of the life and joy in which he brought to every situation.  Eric died February 21, 2010 in Helmand Province, Afghanistan at the age of 19.

Born in Fairfax, VA on August 17^th, 1990.  Those who knew him cherished his genuine ability to make you laugh, even through the most difficult of times.

Eric lived a full life in a short 19 years.  He traveled the world, and experienced great successes in friendships and family.  He was a natural athletic leader and lived a life full of adventure and experience. 

Eric entered the United States Marines Corps immediately after high school, continuing on a 4^th generation legacy in his family. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment. He captured the hearts of his fellow troops and served beside them without hesitation, and when it came to giving up the thing that mattered most, he gave his life. Eric Levi Ward is a hero. He will be loved and missed dearly, but never forgotten.

My grandfather, AE1 Melvin Carl Thompson served 14 years in the US Navy from 1953-1968. He was born on May 24th, 1935 in Colquitt, Miller County, Georgia.  He was stationed at NAS Jacksonville, Pensacola and Brunswick, ME during his marriage to my grandmother. They had 4 children during his time. He was killed during his final flight on Feb 6, 1968 doing recon work over the Gulf of Siam. He was onboard the USS Taluga AO-62 and the USS Burton Island AGB-1 (Blue Nose Arctic Circle). At the tragic age of 32 he was flying when the P3 (BUNO 153440) crashed into the ocean, killing all crew-members, during a Market Time Patrol over the Gulf of Siam. He left a widow and four children and his parents, sisters, brothers and grandkids. Gone but never forgotten. Fair winds and following seas for all those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom.  

Keon Askew graduated from Nuclear Sub School in Groton, Connecticut. He became a Fire Control Technician on nuclear missiles. His submarine is the USS San Francisco 711. As a Christian he like to feed and fellowship with his shipmates. He had a good heart. He is dearly missed.   

When Ben was little, he said he wanted to grow up and have 100 kids - name 5 after his siblings and parents and name the other 95 Ben. Luckily, he changed his plans to finishing his undergraduate degree while on active duty and to go to law school when he retired. He always said his main Navy goal was to out rank his Dad a Chief, and Mom a Senior Chief Petty Officer before he was through. His ultimate goal was to be the first Navy Nuke on the Federal Bench.