Jacob (Jake) had a giving heart and helping spirit. He loved our Lord, his family, friends and serving our country. We cherish every moment and were blessed to have him in our lives. Forever in our hearts. Semper Fortis.
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
Wayne was born in Slidell, LA on April 17, 1983. He lived in Gainesville, Florida for all but seven years of his life.
Wayne entered into the Delayed Entry Program of the Marine Corps on October 24, 2007 and was sworn into the Marine Corps on January 22, 2008 by his father, Captain Lee Vincent, USN Retired. He was 24.
He was a member of 2nd Battalion, 8th Marines, Fox Company, Weapons Platoon, also known as “America’s Battalion”.
On May 18, 2009, Wayne departed Camp Lejeune en route to Afghanistan. He was killed in an ambush on July 25, 2009 in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.
Lieutenant Commander Michael Alexander Rutherford, who served on both an active duty and reserve status in the US Navy was a loving father, son and friend. He passed away in his home on Wednesday, 13 April 2022 at the age of 40. Mike was born at Fort Sill Army Base, Lawton, Oklahoma on 19 November 1981. After graduating from Rex Putnam High School, Mike enlisted in the Navy on 15 January 1999 and was later commissioned as an officer on 17 June 2006. He subsequently became a Naval Aviator, flying P3s across multiple deployments and shore tours. After his flying career concluded, Mike continued to serve with distinction in intelligence and special operations roles. His most recent deployment was to Afghanistan from January thru November 2020 for RESOLUTE SUPPORT, Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan. Mike held a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Oregon State University, an MBA from the Naval Postgraduate School and a Master’s degree from the National Intelligence University. He was known for his quick wit, constant jokes, infectious smile, and his kind and compassionate spirit. Mike is survived by his son, Mason Rutherford, mother, Cherriie Rutherford; father, Michael Banda; two half-brothers, Michael and David Banda, maternal grandmother Gloria Dupuis; paternal grandparents Saul and Mary Banda, Aunts Debbie Dupuis, Ellen Rutherford
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Civil Engineer Corps, USN
United States Merchant Marine Academy
26 SEP 1982 - 27 MAR 2009
It was a privilege for Frankie to serve his country. Frankie was the heartbeat of our family. We all inspire to honor him with our daily actions and words that demonstrate the integrity and courage he showed with his actions.
Survived By: Brooke Toner, Frank Toner III, Rebecca Toner and family
Keith grew up in the Philadelphia and Cheltenham areas of Pennsylvania. Keith was an avid Xbox gamer, he also played volleyball, ran track and cross-country. He married Sidra in 2011 and they resided in Ewa Beach, Oahu, Hawaii. Keith's Navy career began in 2009. He received the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation medal, five Navy achievement medals, and Navy Unit Commendations. Keith was a quiet, gentle soul who loved his family, friends also his canine family Keiko and Chichi. We thank God for the short and precious years he allowed you to be with us. We will miss Keith, but you remain in our hearts.
Cameron was born in Natchitoches, LA and graduated from North-western State University. He was a Naval Flight Officer. He loved his time in the Navy, 3 cruises and made lots of wonderful friends.
Survived By: Parents: Evan & Margaret Hall, Catie Hall, Michael Hall
Navy Gold Star Testimonials
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
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.
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.
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 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
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