Colin Thomas was one of the strongest most dedicated people we knew. Whatever he did he put 100% into it. He was a loving husband and a fantastic father. There isn’t a day that goes by that we aren’t reminded about how much light and joy he brought into our lives. He is gone but he will never be forgotten.
My father is Elmer C. Holt, he enlisted in the Navy, 10 March 1938 was an Aviation Machinist Mate attached to Patrol Squadron 101, U.S. Navy, Cavite, Philippine Islands 27 May 1939. He was captured by the Japanese, survived of the Bataan Death March including a Hell Ship and forced labor in Japan. and returned to the United States, 18 September 1945. He remained in the Navy after a long convalescence. He was eventually assigned to the Essex Class Carrier USS Leyte. On 15 October, at 1515 there was an explosion in the port catapult machinery room killing 32 and injuring scores more. My Father succumbed to his burns and injuries and died 16 October 1953. He left behind his wife with child and two other sons. She gave birth to their third son the following Memorial Day.
Jake had a wonderful sense of humor and loved making people laugh. He is missed by so many.
This is so hard for me as I’m writing this but on May, 9, 2024 I lost my Handsome Amazing Adorable Sweet Loving Caring Son {Dontavius C. Snead} bka Tae S. #5 in the line of duty but Ik my bby is looking / shining down on Me and all his love ones but I can write more but as I’m writing this my eyes are filling up with Tears and my heart is Broken but one thing I do know about my Bby is he was the most precious caring person you can ever meet and if you know him then you would know that he would give you his shirt off of his back & I promise my Bby as long as I got breathe in me I’ll keep his NAME, Alive and Cherish His Memories Forever and Forever but I’ve always told my Bby how Proud I was of Him & All of His Achievements /Goals he Accomplish in the 21 years GOD gave me my Bbyboy and he had the Biggest Brightest Smile on His Face and I will never ever forget it either so til next time my Angel I Miss & Love You sooooooo Much
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.
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
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.
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
'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.'
