Navy Gold Star Coordinator Support

USS Barbel SS-580

Lost at Sea. Eternal Patrol 5-1-1989

In the early hours of September 11, 2001 I was jolted by a vivid vision of a lone body lying atop a stark white gurney at the end of a long dark corridor.  An eerie approach toward the person revealed it was my son, JB.  An awful fear shot to my core as I toiled emotionally and spiritually to reject any merit in this dream.  Later that morning, I witnessed on the news the deaths of thousands of people in the World Trade Center. 

Within five months following the attack on the WTC, my son, Captain James B. Blackmon, Jr., USMC was dead; my pregnant daughter-in-law widowed and my unborn grandson left fatherless.  My life was abruptly changed, just as thousands of other families’ lives have been changed forever.  

An open letter,

To my first born and only son, Evan Hunter Lederer, CM3, it is so hard to believe you have been gone from this earth for 7 years.  Not a day goes by that I don’t think of you, you were such a bright light in this world, your goodness and compassion were evident in so many things that you did from volunteering at various local schools to mission trips in the U.S and abroad.  Your capacity to show love and assist people who needed help never ceased to amaze me.

The TBI you suffered changed the course of your life and ultimately lead to you taking yours, your suicide is never easy to talk about, but I want the person reading this who may feel lost, angry, or hopeless to hear me - Your life is important and matters, people love you!

When things seem at their worst always remember that another day will come, and it can be filled with promise and good moments. 

Seek the help you need, don’t be ashamed – Reach Out people care. 

If there’s one last thing I can say as a mom it’s this, I would give anything to have one more incredible hug from my son –

Evan, until we meet again, All My Love – Mom

Born in Olney, Maryland, Dustin took his oath to join the US Navy on March 15, 2015. He found his niche serving as an Electronics Technician aboard the USS JOHN S MCCAIN. His athletic abilities along with his love for the sea catapulted him to succeed in being a certified Search and Rescue Swimmer [SARS] for the Navy, serving in missions while deployed. Dustin had a way of speaking to both young and old with an energetic passion and gentleness-but his gift was in listening, and always being with those in need. Dustin was and adventurist, living life to the fullest and documenting every aspect of his journey; he was an avid runner signing up for every race, he bought a bike in Japan just to see the sights, and when he couldn’t ride to the top of the highest mountain, he hiked it. He loved every sport known to man. He valued friendships without judgement; loved his family, God, both which strengthens a home. He will be remembered for his peaceful-gentle soul.

Survived By: Parents: Brian Doyon & Karen Doyon  Sister: Annette Doyon

Brian "Gibby" Gibson served in the United States Navy for 12 years. He was stationed at the Naval Air Station Sigonella in Sicily, Italy.  He was an aviation structural mechanic for the US Navy Helicopter Combat Support Squadron Four (HC-4) Black Stallions.  He attained qualifications as a MH-53E helicopter crew chief, quality assurance inspector, assistant NATOPS instructor and functional check flight crew chief. He received his bachelor's degree in professional aeronautics from Embry Riddell University. He leaves behind his parents, brother and sister-in-law, a sister, three nephews, one niece and one great niece along with his Black Stallion brothers and sisters. Brian "Gibby" is gone but not forgotten.