We love and miss you to the moon and back. Rest in peace-Mom, Dad, Brothers and Sister
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
James was a very caring person. He volunteered at the USO in Guam before he passed away. He broke his wrist when he was in high school and we were driving 30 miles from home one day and blew a tire. He would not let me change the tire. He told me his casts were so hard it did not hurt to change the tire. I and his brother miss him so much. We love you James Dyer!!!
#Peter the 3rd borne child of 5 & 1st of 3 sons that has enlisted into the United States Military. Both of his two older brothers joined the service ranks of the United States Army Rangers & United States National Guards men. A Lover of the ocean. Peter was motivated by his grandmother to enlist in the United States Navy & served 6 years. He sailed the seas on three different Nimitz-class aircraft carriers. Following the 3 Nimitz-class Peter was stationed and worked the HSG-3 at NAS North Island, in San Diego, CA and lastely the Wasp Amphibious assault ship of the USS Makin Island LHD-8~IYASOYAS He has traveled many voyages to distant lands. To setting sails asea humbled by nature , a Kind Soul. Peter had Heart! A big Heart at that A rare breed of his time A lover in his own right . He expected nothing less than that of the same Love & Kindness in return.. Just an all around kinda guy. He was a world traveler, a reason to smile ,and an inspiration to be a better. Peter’s legacy will be honored as we celebrate his life & live everyday as he did. Thank you, Peter for your Service to our country and for your Sacrifices for our freedom. May the seas lie smooth before you. May a gentle breeze forever fill your sails. May sunshine warm your face, And kindness warm your soul. # FOREVERPETER♥ ♥mom ~Fair winds and Following seas, shipmate, we have the watch.
Petty Officer 1st Class Brian Richard Stead was born on the Northshore of Boston on January 17, 1990. He grew up amongst a large and loving family and group of friends.
After college Brian enlisted in the Navy, wanting to be part of the world’s greatest team. He served proudly from 2013 until 2024. In the course of those 11 years, he achieved the rank of Petty Officer 1st Class and earned several medals and accommodations. In November of 2021 Brian married Reiko Suzuki and in June of 2023 welcomed a beautiful daughter, Emi Stead. Sadly in April of 2024 we lost Brian as he was serving in the Navy. He is missed by all that knew him, we have all lost a fine man. He will forever be in our hearts. It is with pride that Brian served our nation.
Nathan Lee Watford was born in Saint Joseph, Michigan. He joined the Navy in 2008 where he excelled as an Engineering Laboratory Technician on a nuclear submarine, according to his was father, Trent. “Nathan was a bright young man with a very inquisitive mind,” he said. “He loved animals and at different times had a pet bird, a dog and cat.” He enjoyed playing video games and riding the family’s jet ski. He is remembered by his parents, Trent and Lynelle and his brother, Air Force Major Jonathan Watford.
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Brandon Slatton loved to laugh, said his wife, Jenny. “He was definitely a people person.” Brandon was born in Pocatella, ID, but grew up in Pevely, MO where he attend-ed Herculaneum High School. He joined the Navy in 2004 and be-came a Damage Controlman where he managed fire systems aboard ships, taught firefighting at Boot Camp, and recruited young Sailors.A handy guy, Brandon was always working on something – be-tween building things for his two children or tinkering with his motorcycle or pick-up truck, his hands were rarely idle. According to Jenny, Brandon’s dream was to retire at 20 years and become a fire marshal as his second career, “or a mailman,” he would joke to his wife. He always had a smile on his face, “unless the Cardi-nals or Packers were losing,” says Jenny. He is remembered by his wife Jenny, his children, Gene and Emmie, his mother and father, Paula and Vern, and his siblings Nathan, Anna, and Danielle.
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Navy Gold Star Testimonials
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 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.
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 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.'
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