“Forever Loved, Never Forgotten”

The Navy Gold Star Program is eternally grateful for the sacrifice of those Service Members who have died in service to our country. To help us to never forget, we have set up this tribute page to honor and remember the memory of those lives. If you would like to honor the memory of your Sailor, Soldier, Marine, Airman or Coast Guardsman through the Navy Gold Star website please submit your thoughts and a photo.

Ray “Boats” had many impressive accomplishments during his service. Winning the Admiral Zumwalt Award, twice, serving aboard the USS Curtis Wilbur, USS Spruance, being a part of the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami relief efforts just to name a few. Ray was energy, he could light up any room. Those who love him are reminded of his impact in the songs we hear, the smiles of those we love and friends we have yet to meet, in Sailors who have yet to join the service. Ray was so many things to so many people, above all he was laughter, a helping hand and a friend to anyone. How do you harness something like the moon and all the stars? If you had the pleasure of meeting him, you know Ray was the moon and stars wrapped up in one. When a life such as this touches you, you are forever changed.?