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Navy Gold Star Program Information & Resource Site

Navy Gold Star is the Navy’s official program for providing long-term support to surviving families of Sailors who pass while on Active Duty. If you are visiting this page because you are a surviving family member of a deceased service member, please accept our most heartfelt sympathy and gratitude for your loved one’s service and sacrifice in defending our nation . . .

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Navy Gold Star Coordinator Support

Navy Gold Star Coordinators provide support to families around the world. Find a coordinator near you.

Navy Gold Star Tributes


U.S. Navy
PRC
Stacey Robinson
07 Oct 2003

PRC Stacey Robinson was a husband, father of three and career Navy man whose distinguished service epitomized the virtues of bravery and unwavering commitment to his country. On 7 Oct 2003, he lost his short battle with a service-connected illness. His everyday acts of kindness, courage and unwavering resolve in the face of adversity and quiet assurance reminds us that hope can endure even in the most challenging times. Thru his words and his deeds, Stacey showed his family, friends, and shipmates that the spirit of service transcends the boundaries of time and space, forever echoing in the hearts of everyone that knew him. He is gone but never forgotten.

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U.S. Navy
HM3
Niko Venuti
17 Oct 2020

Niko Venuti, a devoted Navy serviceman, devoted husband, cherished son, loyal friend, and beloved brother, left this world after a valiant battle with cancer. Despite his departure in 2020, his memory remains a cherished beacon in the hearts of all who knew him. Niko's life was a testament to love, laughter, and unwavering loyalty. His devotion to his family was unparalleled, evident in the warmth of his embrace and the twinkle in his eye when surrounded by loved ones. A true romantic at heart, he showered his wife with affection, ensuring every moment was filled with joy and tenderness. Beyond his family, Niko's passions were as diverse as they were captivating. He found entertainment in European soccer, the thrill of dueling in Yu-Gi-Oh battles, the serenity of nature, and the immersive worlds of video games. His enthusiasm for life was infectious, his laughter a constant sound that resonated in every hallway of the house. In the Navy, "Doc" Niko served with honor and distinction, embodying the values of courage, commitment, and camaraderie. His brothers remember him as a steadfast friend, always ready with a joke to lift spirits and a shoulder to lean on during tough times. Though Niko's physical presence may be gone, his spirit lives on in the cherished memories he leaves behind. He will forever be remembered for the light he brought to our lives, the laughter he shared, and the love that bound us together. Rest in peace, Niko, your legacy will endure for eternity.

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U.S. Navy
PO3
Douglas Robert Beichner
26 Sep 2009

Doug was, from the moment of his birth, such a joy-he was always smiling. He was intelligent, inquisitive, caring, funny and happy. It’s been over 11 years since he died and while the wound is not as raw, the large piece of my heart and soul that I lost when I lost him can never be filled. There are no words to ex-press how much I miss him.

At his Funeral one of his shipmates spoke and said “Doug could walk into a room of 40 miserable men and within 30 seconds they would all be laughing at something he said or did. “That is just one of the many ways that he has remembered by the people in his life. He was dedicated to his job in the Navy as a Turbine Engineer and also as a Search and Rescue Swimmer (SAR), a position in which he trained rigorously and consistently as he had to be in top physical shape for this selfless and dangerous job. That was just a little of who he was, caring and always thinking of others before himself. He was Doug Beichner, my son, my joy, one of my three miracles God has given me, and no mother could be prouder.

Parents-Deborah Schurman, Edward Beichner, Sister-Alison Beichner, Brother-Daniel Beichner. Beloved Dog-Chopper

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U.S. Navy
PO3
Hendrice M. Robinson
12 Jan 2009
Hendrice was Gods divine gift to our family. He was a very determined young man always encouraging others. He was funny, a poet and a gifted musician who played by ear. After high school he joined the US Navy stationed at Great Lake, IL. He went on to become a Ceremonial Guard and participant in several famous services. 
He later went on to traveling around the world on several ships. Whenever he came home he brought gifts and spend quality time with his brothers, family and friends. We truly miss him.
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U.S. Navy
SCPO
Jayson Brettin
29 Apr 2015
Jay was a great sailor and an even better man. When I first met him we were both sailors, the A-Ganger and the Hul Tech, at that time I out ranked him but it didn’t last long as he quickly moved up the ranks. He was admired and respected by the many sailors who served with him and under him. Jay was very proud of serving his country and had been out to sea most of his 23 year career. Sadly, he passed away while preparing to go out to sea yet again on the USS Alabama.  Jay loved his family very much and was looking forward to his upcoming retirement and being able to spend more time with his family and friends. He was a kind, generous man with a big heart and a warm smile and exhibited those traits every day. His was the definition of a life well-lived! He touched many people’s lives and is greatly missed.–Lisa Brettin, Gold Star Spouse
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U.S. Army
MSG
Sean Bell
28 Feb 2021
Sean wanted to serve since he was in the 6th grade. He was also named after Sean Connery. He left for boot camp 07/05/2001 and graduated just after 09/01/2001. During his time in the Army, he achieved 2 Bachelors degrees, 2 Masters degrees and was working toward his Doctoral degree. He was also a Bronze Star recipient. He lost his battle with his demons, just 5 weeks shy of retirement. After his passing, his dad and I realized that we raised a boy until age 18, but learned what kind of man he was. He was a thoughtful leader, who lead by example. We so miss his giggle - didn't laugh he giggled - and the smile he had every time he saw us. RIP my son. We sure miss you. Love, Mom and Dad ~ Mission #22
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Navy Gold Star Testimonials