Navy Gold Star Program Information & Resource Site
Contact Us
Navy Gold Star Tributes
William was born to be in the military, says his mother, Lisa who said her son was funny, smart, athletic and a "protector" to a fault. At the age of five, William declared that one day he would grow up to be a Navy SEAL. Though he was mentally and physically prepared, it was during his Navy physical he learned he was color blind, and his dream of becoming a SEAL was dashed. He then chose to become a Corpsman, graduating first in his class. After two years at Balboa Hospital and a transfer to Camp Le Jeune, his desire to get in the battlefield with 1st battalion 2nd Marines Weapons Company was realized. He came home from Afghanistan a hero in 2011. Devoted to his brothers, he chose to extend his five year commitment attaching to a scout sniper platoon. His life was cut short in an accident on the day he completed his training. William loved his family, friends and his country. "He was a bright light in our lives," said Lisa. "He has been gone nine years and it still feels like yesterday. I am proud and grateful to call him our son."
Our Son John P. Fritz served on board the USGN Florida 728 and was in charge of the Nuclear Propulsion System. The Motto of the USGN Florida is "Fortis Fortuna Aduivat" or "Fortune Favors the Brave." He was Brave, Adventurous, and the Smartest man we have ever known. He had a thirst for adventure, he walked the Appalachian Trail alone. He went on a personal "Walkabout" in Queensland, Australia, hiking and exploring the Country and Camping outside and staying in Hostels. He was fearless. Above all things He Loved his God, his Family and his Country. He served them all with every ounce of his being. He deployed numerous times. He transferred to the NNPTC in South Carolina after serving on the USGN Florida and became a respected, and innovative instructor. He is survived by his Mother, Father, two brothers and four sisters and daughter Madeline. His infectious laugh, boundless curiosity, and thirst for adventure will never be forgotten by those who loved admired, and cherished him. we remember that as long as we say his name he will always be with us. "Fair Winds and Following Seas, Rest Your Oar Sailor, we have the watch. We Love You John Paul!
Mark Brandon Emery, was born on October 8, 1980 in Napa, Idaho. After graduating from Napa High School in '98, Mark enlisted in the United States Navy. Mark was stationed at Port Hueneme when he met his wife, Christy. Mark and Christy were married February 15, 2003. On October 9, 2004, Mark and Christy welcomed their first child, Deavion Emery. On November 16, 2005 Mark and Christy welcomed their second child, Sage Emery. Mark was a dedicated Navy Seabee for 21 years. Mark loved being a Navy Seabee and he encompassed everything the Navy stands for in every single decision he made. Mark was approachable, but also a force of reckoning when the situation called for it. Mark was a family man. He loved spending time with his wife and children. Mark was a supportive father and he did everything from football practice to listening to music with his children. Christy and Mark were married for 18 years and enjoyed volunteering, attending concerts and cuddling while watching their favorite shows. Mark was a Hero. He always fought for what was right and did so day after day until he passed. Mark has touched so many lives and we are all thankful for the time we had with our American Hero. May we never forget his love for us and our nation. We love and miss you Daddy and will be graciously awaiting our "I'm already there!"
Lt. JG Wallace Eugene Burch died on October 1, 2015 as a result of a training accident when the T-45 that Wallace and Lt. Patrick Ruth were flying crashed in Tellico Plains, Tennessee. Wallace was born on October 15, 1991 in Nashville, Tennessee. He graduated from DeSoto Central High School in 2010 and Mississippi State University in 2014. Wallace attended Naval Officer Candidate School in September, 2014 and was commissioned as an Ensign with Class 05-15E on January 16, 2015. Wallace reported to VT-6 for Primary Flight Training in the T-6B in June, 2015. While in Pensacola, Wallace was awarded the Commodore’s List with Distinction for superior performance during training. In April, 2016, Wallace was selected for the Strike Training Pipeline and reported to VT-7 in Meridian, Mississippi. He was a member of Class 16-95 with VT-7 and finished immediate Jet training in March, 2017. Wallace had a magnetic personality and was a friend to so many. He is loved and missed everyday by his family and close friends.