From an early age it was clear that Will was destined to serve in the military. He was simply built to protect. He was a highly intelligent young man who had a photographic memory. He joined the Navy in January 2014. He scored a 98 on the ASVAB and was offered anything he wanted. He chose sonar and was the honor grad in A School. He served his entire career aboard the USS Chafee, DDG 90. He was well trained in martial arts and was also on the Anti-Terrorist Team. In his final deployment in 2017 there was a total casualty of the Array. It was unspooling and about to be lost at sea. He devised a way to reverse and repair the issue and was able to retrieve the invaluable equipment, put it back in service and affording the ship the ability to return to Pearl Harbor solo without delay. Today, every ship in the Navy has a manual with this procedure under his name. The Navy named the Winch Room that houses the Array aboard the Chafee in Will's honor.
He left behind his wife Whitney and newborn son Connor, who was only 6 weeks old at his passing, as well as a family who misses him each and every day. He made a difference in the lives of everyone he touched. He further left a legacy of honor, dedication, valor and military bearing for his time served in the US Navy.
Timothy Matthew McGowan (IW/SW) enlisted in the Navy in 2012, and at the time of his death (2025) he was a Senior Chief for Cryptologic Technician Collection (CTRCS). He was awarded during his service three Navy Achievement Medals and one Joint Service Commendation Medal. He served on two deployments, with the first for the Global War on Terrorism, and on the second he earned a Realm of the Arctic certificate. Tim served on the USS Arleigh Burke and USS Oscar Austin, and worked at CWG-67 on multiple tours including as command career counselor. His last service medal earned was the Defense Meritorious Service Medal.
Hayden is a beloved son, brother, and friend to more than can be counted. He proudly served two extensive deployments on the USS Abraham Lincoln protecting our country. He has been known throughout his life in and outside of service as one of the kindest, most thoughtful, and authentic human beings. He is exceptionally proud of his love for his family, commitment to the Navy and his placement on Seal Team Ten. While he is intensely missed on this earth, he will be carried in our hearts forever.
CE1 (Construction Electrician) Tito L. Ruiz was born in the Philippines on April 2, 1974. He graduated from Radford High School in 1993 and joined the Navy in January 19, 1999.
His duty stations includes U.S. Naval Support Unit, State Department, NSA/NIOC Hawaii, NCTS FE Yokosuka, NMCB1 Gulfport Mississippi, and NCTS FE Det Sasebo where he served as the Base Communication Assistant Manager.
CE1 Tito Ruiz is survived by his wife, Melody Ruiz and they have 3 children ( Fiona, Ysabella and Tj)
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.
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
'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.'
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
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
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
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.
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.
