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 Tributes
Preston Miles Mitchell born to Ida and Jeffery Mitchell on November 22,1995 as young boy Preston was always thinking about others and how he could help. He was focus on doing something great being the best person he could be. And with that goal in mind he decided to join Navy where Faith, Courage and Service with Honor would propel him. There were no other Petty Officer 2nd Class could replace a friendly, determined hard working, loveable young man. He was proud of his accomplishments as a Petty Officer 2nd Class. God chose Preston to depart this earth at early age on June 2, 2021.His sudden death has left a void in all of our lives but will forever be proud of Preston. Neither time or reason will change the way I feel. Be there in my heart always.---Till we meet Again Son---
Love Mommy and Family.
Dakota “Kody” Kinkton was born aboard NAS Jacksonville, FL and grew up around the Navy base in Orange Park, FL. He attended high school at Orange Park High, joining the Navy in 2012. Kody dreamed of being a mechanic when he was older and worked as an aviation mechanic aboard NAS Jacksonville. He loved motorcycles, trucks, bonfires, fishing and all things outdoors. “He was the best kid ever,” said his mother, Laura. “He was every mother’s dream: responsible, loving and smart and oh, so handsome.” Kody is remembered by his wife, Morgan, children Levi and Alli Jane, his mother and stepfather, Laura and Michael, his father and stepmother, Bob and Beth as well as two siblings Kelsey and Gunner. “We were and still are so proud of who he was as a person and a sailor. We miss him every day.”
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Never Forgotten
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Jonathan “Jon” Lesko was born in Paramus, NJ. Jonathan’s mother, Diane, said Jon had many interests and seemed to know everything. “He was my Google!” she said. “He was like a sponge, absorbing information.” He loved movies, could tell you the actors, directors and classic lines from all of his favorites. He loved doing impressions and accents to make those around him smile. Thoughtful and generous, Jon never hesitated to open his wallet - whether it was for a team selling candy bars or a homeless person on the street. He joined the Navy in 2011 and was a Surface Nuclear Mechanical Operator. Jonathan is remembered by his parents, Peter and Diane, his younger brothers, Eric and Mike, as well as many cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents.
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Navy Gold Star Testimonials
Gold Star Family
'This was a great experience for me. I am so glad I did it. I appreciate all of the work and coordination from everyone involved. Thanks for your program. It meant a lot to me and my husband. We were taken on a tour of the hanger, meet some of the men now in the squadron, and had a very nice time. Thank you very much Sandra.'
KRIS ROMEO BISHUNDAT'S FAMILY
Patricia you are perfect for the job you do with the Gold Star Families. Talking to you over the phone felt like I have known you before and meeting you in person validate my feelings. After almost 14 years it means something special to meet other parents and families who have walked our path and the others who are now on that long painful journey our prayers are with all to find comfort.Gold Star Mom and Dad, Maryland
Gold Star Spouse, California
As a survivor of a military serviceman, I'm so pleased for all of you in supporting and caring for those who have lost their love ones like mine. Your kindness and cooperation is being appreciated.
Gold Star Family
Susanna, thanks for all you do for the Gold Star Families. . .encouraging Dolores to submit a tribute for our son Rene was just another example of how you are always reaching out to care for and encourage family members to remember and celebrate the lives of their loved ones.Thank you! Bill & Dolores
Delrio Family
Thank you very much for everything Erick it was a pleasure to meet you in person, I hope that we are able to maintain communication with the Navy Gold Star program that represents so much satisfaction and happiness for us to unite with other families. Hugs
Gold Star Dad
Thanks Sabrina for your greatful assistance in obtaining gold star pins for me and my family. We do appreciate your hard work in making this possible.
Judi and Pat, Gold Star Wives of America, Inc.
We were very happy to see Gold Star Navy in the Resource Room at the Snowball Express in Dallas Texas. Rufus and Stephanie provided valuable information and also helped in the event. Thank you for being there for us.
Carol & Andrea
Mrs. Jackson, you're such a blessing. We don't feel forgotten after our loss anymore. We greatly appreciate the moral support you provided to us. Thank you very much for all you do. Carol & Andrea