A native of California, Brandon A. Ward began his Naval Service on April 26, 2007. After completion of Basic Training Brandon attended Hospital Corpsman “A” school.
After graduation In November 2007, Brandon transferred to Naval Hospital, Bremerton, Washington. While there he advanced to Petty Officer 3rd Class.
In March 2010, Brandon reported to Camp Pendleton, California. While stationed there he achieved the Navy Enlisted Classification of “Fleet Marine Force Corpsman.”
During his tour at Pendleton, Brandon “DOC” successfully completed the necessary rigorous requirements to earn his “Enlisted Fleet Marine Force Warfare Specialist” designation, as well as advancing to 2nd Class Petty Officer.
Brandon died December 22, 2017 in Jacksonville, North Carolina while he was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.
Brandon was posthumously promoted to the rank of Petty Officer 1st Class, as of December 24, 2017.
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Washburn William Wear III, of Ocala, Florida passed away unexpectedly on May 23, 2024. Washburn was born in West Palm Beach, Florida on December 29th, 1999. Washburn grew up in Ocala, Florida, where he graduated from Belleview High School in 2018. Washburn lettered in wrestling, weightlifting, football, golf and was in ROTC. He was a proud member of 4-H and loved showing steers.
Washburn then went on to Florida State University for two semesters. In 2019, Washburn enlisted in the United States Navy. He went to boot camp in February of 2019 and after earning the Top Marksman award for his graduating class, he graduated in May of 2019. Washburn achieved the rank of Petty Officer Third Class (E-4) in 2022 and eventually was promoted to Petty Officer Second Class,
(E-5) in 2024. As a Naval Aircrewman Mechanical (AWF), Washburn was a valued member of the VR-58 squadron, The Sunseekers, at the Naval Air Station in Jacksonville, Florida.
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Chris entered the Navy on August 13, 2009. Prior to that he was a Navy Midshipman at Iowa State University (ISU) where he attended on a NROTC Scholarship. At ISU he studied engineering and exercise science. At the end of his junior year, he relinquished his Scholarship and enlisted in the Navy. Eventually he received orders to the USS THACH where he served as an Operations Specialist, and member of the VBSS team (visit, board, search, and seizure) which specializes in counter drug operations and anti-piracy missions. Chris loved the US Navy, and all the people he was fortunate to work with in the Navy. On January 7, 2013 Chris passed away in an accident in San Diego, CA. Of Chris it was said he was “a common man with an uncommon desire to succeed”. Chris helped anyone in need, and was dedicated to his friends, family and his country.
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Villanueva was born in Butuan City, Philippines, to Illino illanueva and Lorna Lee. He was a husband and father to Mae, Eleyna and Christian Villanueva Jr. He inherited his parents’ wisdom, integrity and zest for life. In 1998, he joined the U.S. Navy and served as an Electrician’s Mate for 12 years. He completed boot camp in Great Lakes, Illinois. He attended Electrician Class A School and graduated No. 1 in the class, which gave him first choice of duty station. He chose Naval Station Pearl Harbor, Honolulu, Hawaii. His follow-on assignments included USS Lake Erie (CG 70); Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMPACFLT) Boathouse; USS Port Royal (CG 73); and USS Chafee (DDG 90). His list of awards earned includes Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Marine Corps Achievement Medal (3), Meritorious Unit Commendation, Battle E, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal and Sea Service Ribbon.
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Darren always knew he wanted to serve his county, especially in the Navy. To follow the path as his grandfather & Stepdad. The true dream was to always fly jets, but honestly, he just wanted to serve to help people, to make a difference. He would always say, "but Mom, everyone loves a guy in uniform". Such a goofball, always looking to make you smile. Darren enlisted in the 2019 as an IT Specialist, served on the USS Carl Vinson with a Pacific deployment in 2021.
We love you son, we miss you more & more each day, as your memory continues to make a difference. From friends here at home, family & shipmates, we will continue to feel your presence in everything we do.
"See you in a minute", Love Mom.
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Max was smart, kind, adventurous, and so loving and devoted to his family. He was the best son a mom could ever ask for: My Love & My Light. He played goalie in ice hockey and was team captain. He was a drummer and musician, a painter and sculptor. Max loved working with his hands. He earned a BFA and then worked in the movie industry in L.A., creating 3-D monsters and creatures for sci-fi movies. He certainly found his niche in the Navy—working with materials (and his hands here too!)— as an airplane mechanic. Max was usually the first one to go into his squadron to set up tools and equipment for the rest of his group. Because of his supreme commitment and dedication to his work, Max was nominated for Sailor of the Year, after just a year-and-a-half in the Navy. HIs light is truly missed but shines on.
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Lawrence David Hilton was born in Glendale, CA, and graduated from John Burroughs High School. He obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Cal State University and his MBA from the Naval Postgraduate School. He joined the Navy in 1996 and was in the Civil Engineer Corp where he oversaw both construction and Public Works projects at various military installations. Lawrence was a competitive horseshoe player and loved to play strategy board games. “He was a terrific example of unconditional acceptance and love of his fellow man,” said his wife, Carole. “He was a man of faith. His untimely death impacted many but the joy with which he embraced life and his legacy of love and service live on in his children and those who knew him.” Lawrence is remembered by his wife, Carole, his children, Katie, Ryan and Laura, his mother Alice, and sisters, Linda and Stephanie. His father Stan is deceased.
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Rhianda N. Dillard was born in Hattiesburg, MS. Growing up with two brothers and a sister, her mother says she was a smart child who loved to learn new things. She enjoyed all clubs at school, especially robotics which she was introduced to in middle school. Later she also began tutoring other students. She graduated from D’Iberville High School with high honors in 2015 and decided to join the Air Force. She left for basic training and later reported to Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue, NE, but continued to connect with her family as often as possible. Her mother stated she started to open up to others, making new friends, and learn her new job, working with computers. She enjoyed playing pool with her friends and spending time with her family. She is remembered by her mother, Elizabeth, her father, Michael, her “second mother,” Marilyn, her sister, Jennifer, and her brothers, Autuone and Michael, Jr.
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In loving memory of a life so beautifully lived. William was a kind and loving young man who cared deeply and loved life with all his heart. He loved his family and would do anything for them especially for his mother. We love you so much, William. My love for you goes beyond words, and my heart is broken into pieces. Love always, Mom.
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Demetrius was so close to 20 years of NAVY service (less than a month) from retirement when he passed away at the age of 38.
I still shoot billiards (Demetrius taught me this game at age 7) in honor of your memory.
It’s amazing to me how much my youngest son Richard favors Demetrius. It’s almost like I still have you in my life at times.
I will never forget you my one and only BROTHER rest in peace until we meet again in GLORY!
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Loving father, son, husband, brother, grandson, nephew and friend
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He is the wind that blows on a sweet summer day. He is his favorite song that plays in the car when we are having a hard time. He is our life. Petty Officer Third Class, Robert Marquez was born on January 31st, 1987 and from the moment he opened his eyes he was destined for greatness. He truly changed the lives of the people who were lucky enough to know him. Since March 18th, 2017 we find ourselves missing his cheeky kisses, his tight hugs and his laughter that filled the room with joy. We will never forget and will always remember the time he taught his younger sister to drive, the silly times with his mother, and the time he spent with his older brother in Japan. "There's still people in Japan who talk about him and how he helped so many people. Not only for his professionalism, but his character and his heart. His legacy is still there." -Sailor that joined the squadron after he left us.
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Brian was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend. He relished quality time with loved ones and saw the good in others. With a warm smile and a contagious laughter, Brian exuded positivity. He was kind, empathetic, and caring, and he graciously helped those around him while also looking out for their well-being. Known for his integrity, he demonstrated a quiet competence and steadfastness. Brian was a shining light who made a profound difference in the lives of many. A graduate of the United States Naval Academy and the Pennsylvania State University, Brian proudly served as a Submarine Officer for more than 32 years. His notable assignments include Commanding Officer, USS Jimmy Carter; Commodore, Submarine Squadron ELEVEN; and as a flag officer, Commander, Submarine Group TWO and Deputy Commander, Second Fleet. Brian’s decorations include the Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, and Legion of Merit (five awards).
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We pay tribute to our son Clancy who served honorably in the US Navy for 10 years. He began his service at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, then Rota, Spain, and finally in Manama, Bahrain. We are eternally grateful that God blessed us with this precious son, and he was dearly loved by his brother and sisters, family and friends, and those he worked alongside in the Navy. From the time he was a young boy, he was patriotic and always held those in the military with great esteem. He served our country with great integrity, hard work, and dedication of duty to our country.
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In honor and tribute to Kamal Asante’ Green who lost his courageous battle with cancer in 2023. His compassion, service, and kindness touched countless lives. Kamal dedicated nearly a decade of his life at multiple duty stations (including deployment to Djibouti Africa) as a medical and physical therapy technician in the United States Navy while also pursuing a degree in Kinesiology. His dream was to become a Physical Therapist.
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My only son and I am greatful for the time we had with him. He wanted to belong the US Navy as something larger than himself.When he passed he joined something greater.
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Agustin was born and raised in Los Angeles. He was an excellent golfer, but his true passion was mentoring in the Navy. As a Master Chief, he became a Chief Recruiter. His children meant the world to him. Although he passed away when his youngest child Aria Agustin was three months old, he made sure he left pictures, voice recordings and letters so she would know who he was. His favorite phrase was, “It is what it is.”
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Tatyana graduated #8 in her High School Class. She was 3rd generation and first female of the family to serve in the Navy and 4th generation military. She wanted to do her part in keeping the family legacy to serve in the military. Her specialty was Fire Controlman. She excelled through the ranks and was promoted to Petty Officer First Class (E6) in 4 years. She served onboard the USS Bataan LHD5, deployed to the Persian Gulf. She qualified as an Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist and Enlisted Air Warfare Specialist. Awarded the Navy and Marine corps Commendation Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal with 2 Bronze Stars, and the National Defense Service Medal. She stated, "I am a United States Sailor, and I am enormously proud to serve my country."
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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
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Daddy was a true leader with a huge heart. From East Coast gentleman to an officer in Pearl Harbor, he was an example of honor, class and love. He cared for those he served to the point where decades later, his colleagues and friends have reached out to my mom, brother and I to let us know how much he and his service meant to them. He was even kind and tried to help the shipmate who ended up killing him. March 27, 2026 marked 50 years without him. My brother and I have no memories of him but are grateful to those, including our mom and Daddy's family who have helped us know the amazing man he was and I believe still is. We feel his loss deeply and strive to honor his memory. #LeadLikeBurr #28yearsand3days
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Matthew was a husband, a father, a brother and a son. He served 11-12 years and had planned to retire from the USN. His two passions were motorcycles and his family. He was one of the nicest people, with a giving heart. He is still loved and will never be forgotten!
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To my precious second born son, Charles Stuart Cutshaw, when you took your first breath, it literally took my breath away and when I heard of your untimely death, a part of me died.
You are an integral part of our family and your absence is horrifically noticed. We each know that we will see you again in Heaven as we all have professed faith in Jesus' saving grace. Nonetheless, I want to hold you one more time. I want to dance with you one more time. I want to sing "I'll Love You Forever" one more time. I want to witness your great sense of humor and creativity one more time.
Those days are behind us, but as King David from the Old Testament said when speaking of his dead son, "He cannot come back to me, but I can go to him." It is with great anticipation that I look forward to the day that we are united in Heaven with our Jesus and so shall we forever be.
We will memorialize you once again on May 4, the second anniversary of your homegoing and we will celebrate your 26th birthday on June 21st. I lovingly used to tell you that June 21st was the day the angels danced, and I believe May 4, 2020 was a day that the angels cried over our loss of you.
I'm homesick for Heaven like never before and I want to see my precious Jesus first and after that, I want to see you. My sweet son, you will forever be my Prince Charles.
With all my love-
Momma
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CPL Joshua C. Sticklen died December 3, 2006 when the CH-46 helicopter he was in crashed in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Kaneohe Bay. Hawaii. Josh was an Intelligence Specialist and served in Afghanistan and had been awarded the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the Korean Defense Service Medal. He was featured in a 2004 Marine Corps Magazine article in which he explained his role in creating terrain models, which give planners and commanders a realistic view of geographic areas.
Josh, the much loved son of Maggie Sticklen of Virginia Beach, and Larry and Rebecca Sticklen of Virginia Beach, was born in Rota, Spain but grew up in Virginia Beach and was very close with his two sisters, April Swain and husband Tony of Palmyra, VA., and Tricia Koss and husband Chris of Virginia Beach, Josh was the proud and loving Uncle of four nieces that he called his “munchkins”, Kendra & Adryanna of Virginia Beach, and Breanna & Mackenzie of Palmyra, VA. He graduated from Salem High School in 2000, where he was a leader in the Navy’s JROTC program in preparation for his life dream of becoming a Marine! Josh attended two years at Tidewater Community College, then fulfilled his childhood dream and joined the Marine Corps in October of 2002.
IF LOVE COULD HAVE SAVED HIM, HE WOULD HAVE LIVED FOREVER!
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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.
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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.
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Jake had a wonderful sense of humor and loved making people laugh. He is missed by so many.
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He was truly a sweet child. Very, very laidback and easy going. The same as an adult too. He loved weight lifting, nutrition and playing his XBox !
Also known for looking a lot like Thor.... to the point that his CO in Japan bought him a Avengers Thor Hammer toy!!
After visiting Pearl Harbor, Nicholas decided joining Navy was exactly what he wanted to do. He completed boot camp, A school in Pensacola (our hometown) and was assigned to Sasebo, Japan. He loved everything about Japan but especially his fellow sailors and leaders. He was an amazing young man with a huge heart, wise far beyond his years. He excelled in everything he attempted, and we know he would have gone very far in his career. Nick passed away in 2022 after a courageous battle with kidney cancer. Nick's ashes were laid to rest in Destin Harbor, Florida just as he asked. Fair Winds and Following seas my son. You are so missed.
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