Carr decided to join the Navy and applied to OCS his senior year in college in response to 9/11. Carr grew up in New York City and worked on the 92nd Floor of the north tower of the World Trade Center during the summer before his senior year at college. He left for college 3 weeks prior to the plane hitting the north tower and killing everybody who was at the firm at the time (approximately 8:30 am). He went to OCS at Pensacola and trained to be a Flight Officer and was assigned to E-2 Hawkeyes. He fell in love with the Navy and decided to make it his career. He was deployed 4 times in the Middle East, as well as deployment in South and Central American in conjunction with DEA operations. He flew in over 200 combat missions. He served as a Flag Aide to Admiral Philip S. Davidson. Prior to his death he had been promoted to serve as the Executive Officer to VAW 125, the Tigertails, with CAW 5 assigned to the USS Ronald Reagan in Japan. He is loved dearly by his family and friends and is missed each and every day.
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Remembering Mathew
When I think of Mathew, I'm reminded of his incredible sense of adventure. Instead of college, he chose to join the Navy straight out of high school, craving the thrill of exploring the world. Smart, funny, and kind-hearted, his towering 6'5" frame matched his larger-than-life personality perfectly. We lost an extraordinary soul that day, and the void he left behind is immeasurable. To us, he was known as Boo... a nickname that originated from his mischievous childhood antics that always led to another "Boo, Boo" moment. In loving memory of a remarkable son, brother, grandson, and friend who left us all too soon. Mathew, you are missed beyond measure, but your spirit lives on in our hearts and our memories. We love you Boo. Forever & Always.
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Chief Hibbs was successful in his Navy career, and dedicated to community service programs as well as a volunteer fireman.
He was proud to represent the Navy and a very proud father of three!
He was also a true hero on the day that the USS Bonefish had a fire and helped others first before himself.
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Herman "Bud" Bolte IV joined the Navy on his 17th birthday. He graduated 1st in his Aviation Maintenance Training School at Pensacola, Florida and received an early promotion. He was stationed at Cecil Field NAS in Jacksonville, Florida, and Patuxent River NAS, Maryland for four years of shore duty. He served in the Naval Reserves at Point Mugu NAS in Ventura, California until 9/11 when he was called up to Active Reserves. Bud was killed in a homicide while serving during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Bud loved the Navy and was admired by his fellow Sailors. He has been dearly missed by his family and friends.
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Bruce was born January 12, 1973, in Frankfurt, Germany. He moved to
Poughkeepsie in June, 1979. While attending Spackenkill High School, he
was on the cross country team, was captain of the tennis team, and was
very active in school theater. Bruce was the class president of the
Spackenkill High School class of 1991.
Saying, "I like the challenge", Bruce accepted a nomination to the US Naval
Academy, entering in July 1991. In 1995 He graduated with a BS in Ocean
Engineering from the Naval Academy. He was selected for Naval Aviation
training, earning his "Wings of Gold" in February 1998.
Bruce was selected for further training in the F/A-18 Hornet aircraft, the
Navy's primary attack jet. Upon completion of transition training he was
assigned to Attack/Fighter Squadron 25 (VFA-25). VFA-25 deployed aboard the
USS Abraham Lincoln in August 2000 to enforce the Southern No-Fly Zone in
Iraq.
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EOD2 Curtis R Hall had a charming smile that would easily disarm most, but hard work, dedication and perseverance were mandatory. It was these attitudes that transcended Curtis' life. As a Boy Scout he proudly wore its uniform as he worked and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout as well as the National Lifesaving Award for saving his Fathers life while on a a scouting white water trip. The courage, commitment and integrity Curtis learned as a Boy Scout made it an easy transition for him to trade his Scout Khakis for something else. Something bigger than himself; Something that he felt would make a difference to the world. He traded for the Navy Dress Blues of the United States Navy. It was his impeccable ethics, modest nature and humble demeanor that made him the sailor he was and the sailor he will always remembered for. May he and the others like him never be forgotten.
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Peyton joined the navy out of high school in December of 2011. After boot camp at Great Lakes, he reported to VR-54 in Belle Chase, La., where for the next 4 years he was a loadmaster on a C-130. In that position he flew around the world several times, lost track of how many times he was in Hawaii and visited over 50 countries. He then changed jobs and became an airframe mechanic for the next 2 years. Peyton re-joined for 4 more years in February 2018, reporting to VFA-122 in Lemoore, Ca. to work on FA18E/F Super Hornets. While Peyton was there, he was chosen to represent VFA-122 as part of the West Coast Rhino Tactical Demonstration Team. In December of 2021 Peyton re-joined for 6 more years to get back to where he had started at VR-54 Louisiana. Sadly on 2/28/2022 he was struck by a car and killed.
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Loving husband, father and son and now a grandfather.
(submitted by his loving wife, Mylene)
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AS1 (AW/SW/IW) Craig Reuter was born in Iowa. He loved his small town roots but always yearned to see the world. He joined his Navy family in 2001 and started his journey. He was a 17 year veteran of the U.S. Navy. The USS John S McCain, The USS Bonhomme Richard, The USS Nimitz, and finally the USS Makkin Island became his home. Craig left behind his wife of 13 years, a nine year old son, his parents and 2 younger sister's and a younger brother. Craig loved his family, friends and his Navy, especially his AS family. He was involved in both Operation Iraqi and Enduring Freedom, as well as the tsunami efforts and many other expeditionary's. We miss him everyday in everyway.
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Jose Luis (Joey) Resendez was born in Austin, Texas and grew up in El Paso, Texas. Joey graduated with distinction from Cathedral High School in 2014 and received an appointment to the United States Naval Academy. He graduated in 2019. At the time of his death, he was assigned to the U.S.S. Leyte Gulf (CG-55). His first ship was the U.S.S. Truxtun (DDG-103). Joey was always the life of the party, the “ride or die” and the standout in all he did. Joey lived a life of purpose and adventure. He never denied himself a challenge or an experience and that zeal for life was contagious to anyone lucky enough to be in his presence. He had an amazing sense of humor, a quick and enviable intelligence, and a gentleness and kindness rarely found. He had a beautiful and genuine smile, a huge heart, and a generous nature. RIP
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USS Port Royal (CG 73)
Cade Edward Butler was born June 11, 1989. He went to Heaven August 8, 2011.
He was the youngest of three. Cade’s sister, Kaonii King and brother, Michael Horton.
Cade was a highly intelligent young man; he grew up way too fast! Cade was very social, he accepted everyone. When Cade was 15 yrs. He traveled to Guatemala with a mission’s group to help build the Guatemalans a church. Cade had lots of great stories of his trip. He had ordered himself a Pepsi one day, and the guy behind the counter asked him if he wanted a bottle (which cost more) or if he wanted it in a plastic bag with a straw. Cade thought this was hilarious.
Cade said he felt a calling of joining the Navy and enlisted in 2007. He was very responsible and was able to move up ranks quickly. He wanted to go from a Seaman to an Admiral. Cade was a Fire Controlman 2nd Class. Cade explained to his mother that was not a “Fireman”, his job was to shoot down missiles that were aimed at his ship.
Cade will always be remembered for his big heart and smile. He will be forever missed.
One day we will reunite again in heaven.
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Michael Pleasants was born in the Bronx, New York and moved to Teaneck, New Jersey. He excelled academically receiving an academic scholarship to Hampton University. In 2015 Michael enlisted in the United States Navy, continuing his family legacy of military service. He achieved the rank of Petty Officer Second Class, assigned as a Yeoman 2. He was twice selected as Navy Sailor of the Quarter and distinguished as Navy Sailor of the Year. He was decorated with many medals and commendations. During Michael’s military service he earned two college degrees. He graduated with an Associate of Science degree from Bergen Community College and in 2021 he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from Pennsylvania State University. Michael was involved in entrepreneurial endeavors, creating variants of a software application that was designed to bring people together. He also had passions that included an in depth understanding of business and finance.
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Jake was the gatekeeper of nicknames, lover of animals, and a damn good dad. Known for his funny personality, selfless heart, and cranky attitude if he didn’t get enough sleep; a true gem in the world we lost too soon.
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Aviation Boatswain Mate Joseph Naglak, USN, of Naval Station Norfolk and formerly of West Windsor, NJ died in service to our country while working on the flight deck aboard the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) on September 17, 2018. He was 21.Born in Seoul, South Korea, Joe was adopted by Kenneth Naglak and the late Jeanne Naglak. He was a member of the 2015 graduating class at West Windsor Plainsboro High School North and also studied automotive restoration. While in high school he played football and enjoyed basketball. Joe attended Monmouth University where he studied Homeland Security. In addition to his interests in sports and cars, Joe enjoyed drawing, the culinary arts and was an active and energetic volunteer with the Special Olympics.Joe enlisted in the Navy, because "He wanted to give back to a countrywho gave him so much" his sister Stephanie Blair Naglak said in an interview with NJ Advance Media. "He was everything that I hope to be one day and he should always be remembered as a hero with a big heart." After completing his training, Joe met a young lady with whom he wanted to share his life, got engaged and was working with his fiancée, Nicole Weber of Santa Barbara CA on planning their nuptials. Joe will be greatly missed, but forever remembered as one of the most loving and compassionate persons anyone could wish to have been able to call a son, grandson, brother, nephew, fiancé, and friend.
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Carlos was born in Clarksville, TN, and graduated from North West High School. He enlisted in the US Army in 1996 and was working on his Associates of Arts in Criminal Justice when he was KIA. Carlos was a Platoon Sergeant with the 11th Battalion and led ground-force protection on the front lines. He deployed four times during his service. He enjoyed working on his car, hosting barbecues and dinners for his fellow Soldiers, and spending time with his family as often as he could. Carlos last spoke to his son, Cameron, on his 11th birthday, while actively deployed. “Carlos was a quiet person, but when he spoke, folks would listen," said his wife, Kristen. "He was an outstanding leader, trainer, confidant and best-friend to everyone who knew him.” Carlos is remembered by his wife, Kristen, and their son, Cameron.
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MY SON JOSE WAS THE MOST HONEST AND HUMBLE HUMAN BEEN I HAVE EVER MET , I FEEL NO ONE IN THE ENTIRE WORLD WOULD HAVE ANITHING BAD TO SAY ABOUT HIM , HE WAS AN AMAZING SON AND BROTHER TO HIS AUTISTIC SISTER JELLY, HE LEFT TO SOON. JOSE WAS BORN IN CAGUAS, PUERTO RICO, HE MOVED TO ORLANDO IN 2011 AND JOINED THE NAVY IN 2017.
Our son David, lived a full and adventurous life. He accomplished more in his short life of 38 years, than most people do in a lifetime. He graduated college with an engineering degree and commissioned in the Navy Engineering Corps. Spending 5 years as an engineer, he then went back to medical school to earn his Medical Degree. After spending two years as a Flight Surgeon, he applied and was accepted to the Pathology Residency Program at Balboa Naval Hospital, San Diego, CA. It was while he was running to an early morning swim practice that he tragically lost his life. He was a 2nd year Resident. His passions were world travel, hiking National Parks, and a thirst for knowledge. One of his goals was to run a marathon in every continent. On his trip to Antarctica, he accomplished that by running 26 miles on the ship's treadmill, and then participated in the Polar Bear Plunge. We honor him by trying to "Live Like Dave" everyday.
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Jefrey Jatniel Rosario Rodriguez was a young man who loved God and his family. He always helped others and possessed a tender heart. He was a wonderful son, brother, and friend. Upon his passing, we were able to see just how many lives he had touched with his joy, love, and testimony. Today, we honor your life by remembering every moment we shared embracing, laughing, and weeping together. We will love you always, and you will live on in our hearts.
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PO2 Brian Adam Lane was born July 21, 1980. He served as a Nuclear Electronic Technician, 2nd Class on the USS Lincoln, stationed at Whidbey Island, Washington. Brian died on September 30, 2006. Brian was a valedictorian at Prague High School, Prague Oklahoma. Brian went on to study Chemical Engineering at the University of Oklahoma when he decided to join the United States Navy. Brian left behind a wife: Julie and a daughter: Kailey. He now has a granddaughter: Breely and soon to have a grandson: Kamdyn.
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Benjamin "Ben" Norman was born in Manchester, CT, and graduated from Coventry High School. After high school, he completed one year of college before enlisting in the Navy in 2017. Ben was in the final stage of training to become a Machinist Mate (Nuclear Propulsion Engineer) at the time of his death. Growing up, Ben always wanted to become a Naval Officer and then transition to politics. He had two dogs (Cloudy and Ripple) and loved playing all kinds of games (electronic, board, virtual). He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout and met his fiancé Asia, while in Poland with his Scout troop. “Ben had a real joy of life and surrounded himself with a group of friends and family whom he truly loved,” said his mother. Ben is lovingly remembered by his parents Sam and Teri, his sister, Rebecca, his brother, Daniel, and his fiancé, Asia.
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Kevin A. Houston was born in Atlanta, GA, and grew up in Hyannis, MA, where he attended Barnstable High School. Since he was nine years old, Kevin aspired to become a SEAL. He was a member of the Sea Cadet Corps from age 10-16, and joined the navy in 1995. After completing BUDs training with class 221, he joined SEAL Team 4. In January 2008, he had successfully completed the necessary training to become a member of SEAL Team 6. He was KIA in Afghanistan in 2011. “He grew up to become a defender of the ‘little guy,’” says his mother, Janette. “He was highly respected both in high school and at his command. He was an excellent SEAL who was admired and loved by his brothers-in-arms and he felt the same way about them.” He is remembered by his wife, Meiling, his children, Jaina and Ethan, his stepson, Michael McElroy, his younger brother, Craig, and his mother and father, Janette and Arthur. Kevin’s sister, Miranda, predeceased him in 2005.
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Matthew grew up participating in Royal Rangers at church and earned Ranger of the Year several times. He was also in several Christmas plays, even having the lead role in one. As a teen he helped in the puppet ministry and especially liked being a human blacklight puppet. At high school Matthew was a member of JROTC. In his senior year he served as his school's Battalion Commander. After high school Matthew went to an art school in Atlanta, intending to become a famous movie producer. While in Atlanta he married his high school sweetheart. Realizing he needed a stable source of income, Matthew signed up with the Navy (following his brother and two cousins). Falling back on computer skills he had learned in high school, after boot camp, Matthew went to an A-school in Pensacola. Hearing that the top graduate could earn a rank, Matthew made that his goal. Upon graduating at the top of his class, his official title ranking was CTM3. Matthew was then stationed at Fort Meade and while there, he was deployed on a special assignment. He was to be gone for four months, but couldn't tell us where he would be. He was able to call home several times during the first two weeks. However, his last call to his wife one Saturday morning turned out to be his last call home. He hadn't even been gone one whole month when we learned he was one of two Americans killed in Islamabad, Pakistan.
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Our son was 18 years old when he joined the U.S. Navy. He was our eldest, leaving behind 2 siblings. He was full of life! He enjoyed helping people, especially, elders. He was an avid runner, enjoyed scuba diving and fishing. What I, missed the most was his great sense of humor. And love for his family.
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John Michael Odell grew up on Orcas Island, off the Washington coast. He was the third of four children, his family and friends called him "Mick". He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his brothers and friends, had a talent for music and played both basketball and football in high school. The Odell family lived in the Lodge built by the CCC located in Moran State Park where his father was the park ranger.Mick graduated from Western Washington University, WWU, in Bellingham WA where he majored in history. There he met his future wife, Kathy Kandlik. Mick and Kathy married that December. Mick had an amazing tenor voice where he was lead singer in the Odell family band, and singing in the WWU chorus. The Odell family appreciated the military. His brother Kim had joined the Air Force, while brother Don and wife were teachers on a US Military base in Germany. Mick, however always admired the Marine Corps, and after graduating from WWU he enlisted and was accepted for the Officer Candidate Course. Basic class 6-67 graduated in November 1967 at Quantico. Mick drove Kathy back to Washington State after graduation, where Kathy would live with her parents during Mick's Vietnam duty. On April 30, 1968 Mick's platoon was conducting patrols. Earlier that morning when a Navy Landing Craft Utility(LCU) boat was ambushed from the vicinity of An Lac, a village southeast of Dai Do. Mick was given orders to cross the Cua Viet River and attack An Lac. His platoon was ambushed and Mick died. The commanding officer of 3rd Marines, Colonel Milton Hull commented later that during the fighting he saw during World War II and Korea, he had never seen such a huge volume of enemy fire as he did on that day. Kathy has been to the site in Viet Nam where he was killed with other Marines to honor his leadership during the battle. It was a very healing experience for her, and a great honor to meet several of his fellow Marines that served with him. There is a Tribute Monument at Quantico to honor Mick and his fallen brothers from Basic Class 6-67.Mick is buried on Orcas Island where he grew up and is missed by his family every day.
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Served in the Navy from 2012 - 2020.
Ethan was born in Mission Viejo, CA; two years later the family moved to Gilbert, AZ. After 10 years the family moved to Mesa, AZ where Ethan graduated from Red Mountain High School in 2010. Ethan’s love of the military strategy started very early with computer games, history books, movies and his beloved PlayStation. After 4 years at Safeway grocery store, Ethan decided to join the Navy in 2012. Ethan spent 5 years on the USS Gridley (DDG101) that included 2 deployments. USS Gridley was ported 4 years in San Diego and 1 year in Everett Washington. After completing duty on the USS Gridley, Ethan went back to San Diego for 2 years to USS Zumwalt (DDG1000) to get the ship sea ready. By July 2019 Ethan was assigned to the USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG108) in Hawaii which included 1 deployment. Ethan earned numerous awards and promotions including 5 Navy and Marine Achievement Corps Medals. Ethan was known by many shipmates to be consistently hardworking and someone you could count on. Ethan was known for caring for shipmates professional and personal issues. Ethan was known for smiling and using humor to help everyone get through the long days. Ethan leaves behind a family who loves him and misses him every day .
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Mark A. Stets Jr. grew up in Virginia Beach, VA. After high school, he followed in his father's footsteps and enlisted in the Navy. After completing a tour in the Navy, he joined Army Psychological Operations. He deployed to Pakistan from 4th Group, 8th Battalion at Fort Bragg in 2009. He was based in Islamabad, but traveled throughout the country, training Pakistani soldiers. He was killed by a VIED on February 3, 2010. Mark earned many military awards, including the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, the Meritorious Service Metal and the Combat Action Badge. The Senior Leader Course for Psychological Operations at the NCO Academy at Fort Bragg awards the Staff Sergeant Mark A. Stets Jr. Leadership Award to the course participant that exemplifies the outstanding qualities of a leader. Mark’s parents, Mark and Nancy, are honored to present the Award in his name. He is remembered by his wife, Nina, his three daughters, Jessica, December and Rachael, and his paretns, Nancy and Mark.
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Navy Hospital Corpsman Riley Gallinger-Long
Died August 11, 2011 Serving During Operation Enduring Freedom.
He was 19 years old and assigned to 1st Battalion, 6th Marines, Regimental Combat Team 1, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force at Camp Lejeune, N.C.
He was KIA on Aug. 11, 2011, in Marjah district, Helmand province, Afghanistan, while conducting a dismounted patrol.
After his death, a local park in his hometown of Cornelius, OR was dedicated as Veterans Memorial Park to honor all service members who have given the ultimate sacrifice. See the news article here: https://www.oregonlive.com/forest-grove/2012/06/cornelius_dedicates_park_to_ve.html”
Writtten by Zack Gallinger-Long, Gold Star Sibling
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As a Naval Aircrewman - Avionics (AWV), Thomas was stationed at NAS Whidbey Island, Fleet Air Recon Squadron ONE (VQ-1) “WORLD WATCHERS!” He served as a member aboard maritime patrol/reconnaissance aircraft. Thomas was knowledgeable as he also performed primary in-flight and ground duties as an aircraft In-Flight Technician. Thomas went on to achieve the rate AWV2 – on the EP-3E. Thomas enjoyed many hobbies during his free time. He liked tinkering with automobiles, playing video games, building computer gaming systems, and reading books. He also enjoyed driving and listening to music, big bonfires, and collecting and shooting various firearms. He loved being outside and went on many outdoor adventures.
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Lieutenant Paul Fridley was lost at sea on August 31, 2021 while conducting flight operations aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) off the coast of San Diego. His aircraft suffered a mechanical failure shortly after landing resulting in the loss of all five crew members.
Paul was born in Rota, Spain and grew up in Annandale, Virginia. Paul came from a proud Navy family where both his grandfathers, his father and both of his sisters all served in the Navy.
Paul was an outstanding student attending W.T. Woodson High School in Fairfax, Virginia where he was captain of both the football and lacrosse team. Paul was awarded a NROTC scholarship to the University of Virginia where he majored in Mechanical Engineering, but Paul’s greatest achievement at UVA was meeting and marrying his wife Sarah.
Loved by many, Paul is greatly missed by all who knew him.
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My son Corneilius Donte' Brown was a humble, funny, and caring person. He never met a stranger, he always had a smile on his face, even if he was having a bad day. Corneilius a great personality and he stayed positive. I was told he encouraged others when they were on their 10 month deployment. Corneilius was my ONLY child! My son was my sunshine.
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