Donald “Wayne” Vincent
Wayne was born in Slidell, LA on April 17, 1983. He lived in Gainesville, Florida for all but seven years of his life.
Wayne entered into the Delayed Entry Program of the Marine Corps on October 24, 2007 and was sworn into the Marine Corps on January 22, 2008 by his father, Captain Lee Vincent, USN Retired. He was 24.
He was a member of 2nd Battalion, 8th Marines, Fox Company, Weapons Platoon, also known as “America’s Battalion”.
On May 18, 2009, Wayne departed Camp Lejeune en route to Afghanistan. He was killed in an ambush on July 25, 2009 in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.
Navy Gold Star Tributes
To our sweet handsome man, Juan Michael Soriano, from the day you were born , we were so in love with you, with your chubby cheeks, head full of hair and those adorable dimples, how could we be so lucky to get such a blessing from God. We watched you grow from a baby to a bright intelligent man. You were always an inspiration and such a sweet soul. We admired your motivation and determination to always be the best, whether it be playing soccer, or just being the loving father, son , and brother, you made all our hearts melt. Your smile was so contagious, and your eyes were a ray of light, now when we look into the sky, we see your ambience and strength to keep us moving. Juannie you are hero! We will always keep your legacy alive , and thank you for all of your accomplishments, and serving our country. This is not goodbye; this is till we see you again. We love you!
Joel was born in Georgia. He loved the Navy and serving his country. He was married for 25 years and has two beautiful daughters.
(lovingly submitted by his wife, Lisa McCoy)
Jayton Daniel Patterson of Sedley, Va. was born on August 9, 1978. He was the firstborn son of Frank and Sharon Patterson. Jayton shared a loving relationship with his sister Mattie and brother Hunter. He engaged in all sports during his childhood and teen years - hunting, fishing, baseball, football and basketball. He was an active member of Millfield Baptist Church and was known as a soldier of God.
After graduating high school from Tidewater Academy, he attended college prior to enlisting in the Marine Corps in 1999 and re-enlisted in 2003. Jayton trained in Parris Island, and then went on to serve his first 4 years as part of the White House Security Detail in Washington, D. C. Stationed at 8th and I Marine Barracks, he marched proudly in the Evening Parades. He was an elite Marine who had toured the Pentagon and the World Trade Center with President Bush after the September 11th attacks. He found the love of his life, married Stephanie Bays of Wakefield on February 15, 2003 and they were blessed on October 15 with a beautiful daughter, Claire.
Jayton was transferred to Camp Lejeune in August 2003. He deployed with the 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines, Bravo Company, Weapons Platoon, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit in July 2004 to Iraq. Jayton was killed by an IED explosion in the Anbar Province of Iraq on January 15, 2005. He died a hero, serving his country and protecting our freedom. Semper Fi.
Mamma Misses You So Much My Love.
(Nuclear Submarine Electrician. Top of her class!)
Chris was very excited to join the Navy, Chris was so proud to graduate from Great Lakes and so proud to wear the uniform. Chris had his first deployment to Okinawa and was very excited to go. after he tour of duty he was sent to Port Hueneme in California and was also very excited to back in the states. A tragic accident occurred while at Port Hueneme and Chris was succumbed from the injuries. Chris was a proud seaman and a fun loving kid with many friends and family. Missed every day.
Our hearts will always miss you!
Ethan Eric Dumbuya left Freetown, Sierra Leone for the U.S in March 2018 and attended North Hagerstown High School in Hagerstown, Maryland where he graduated with high school diploma.
Because of his admiration for the U.S Military, he enlisted for military duty in December 2020, at Naval Station Great Lakes, Chicago, Illinois. He was proud to enter boot camp as a seaman recruit and upon successful completion, he graduated in March, 2021.
Ethan found pleasure in helping people including his shipmates which gave him the greatest joy.
He was passionate about the less fortunate children in our society and had plans of establishing a foundation to help less privileged school age children reach their fullest potential through education. Unfortunately, he passed away on Sept 11, 2021 in Dam Neck, Oceana VA before he was able to accomplish his vision.
His Cheerful attitude and infectious smile will be missed by his family, friends and all those he encountered.
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Because of his admiration for the U.S Military, he enlisted for military duty in December 2020, at Naval Station Great Lakes, Chicago, Illinois. He was proud to enter boot camp as a seaman recruit and upon successful completion, he graduated in March, 2021.
Ethan found pleasure in helping people including his shipmates which gave him the greatest joy.
He was passionate about the less fortunate children in our society and had plans of establishing a foundation to help less privileged school age children reach their fullest potential through education. Unfortunately, he passed away on Sept 11, 2021 in Dam Neck, Oceana VA before he was able to accomplish his vision.
His Cheerful attitude and infectious smile will be missed by his family, friends and all those he encountered.
We honor him always and especially this month as a Gold Star Casualty. He was a World War II Era casualty on August 9, 1942 on the USS Quincy (CA-39). He was a Chief Petty Officer Electrician's Mate. MIA Status and his last recorded location was Waters off Savo Island, Solomon Islands, South Pacific
COMMENDATIONS
Purple Heart
Combat Action Ribbon
World War II Victory Medal
American Campaign Medal
Navy Presidential Unit Citation
Navy Good Conduct Medal
Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal
Navy Expeditionary Medal
He leaves a long legacy behind, his only daughter, Patricia is 88, 4 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren and 7 great-great grandchildren.
Natalie had a light you couldn’t ignore—warm, genuine, unforgettable. She made people feel seen and valued, even in fleeting moments. Her smile radiated kindness, her presence, comfort, and her strength was unmistakable. Yellow, her favorite color, fit her perfectly: bright, joyful, full of warmth. She brought sunshine to everyone around her, leaving more than memories—she leaves a legacy. She was deeply loved by her mother, Roxanne and stepfather Louis, her sisters Lillian and Naturale, her grandparents Rich and Doreen, and her uncle Richard and aunts Faith, Tanya, and Sonya, whose bond with her was unbreakable and filled with love. The laughter, love, and effortless gestures she shared will remain with us. Natalie will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Her spirit endures in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Patrick R. Mueller was born in Buffalo, NY, and graduated from Jefferson High School. Pat enlisted in the Navy in 1977 as a Teletype Repairman, and later became a Restricted Line Officer of Communications. It was always Pat’s goal to own a Harley Davidson repair shop in retirement. He loved riding his Harley Davidson Road King motorcycle and was a huge sports fan (football, baseball and ice hockey). Other hobbies he enjoyed were eating Twizzlers, napping and playing with his grandchildren. When Pat would return home from work, he would always yell out “Honey, I’m home,” and his children would run into his arms. Pat honorably and faithfully served our great nation for 37 years. He is remembered by his wife, Cathy, his children, Tara, Caitlin and Ryan, and three grandchildren. He’s also missed by his siblings. He was predeceased by his mother and father.
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Frank Almonte was born in Bronx, NY on November 10, 1988; a talented soul who always managed to live a happy life. He loved his family, traveling, and will be remembered as a joyful soul, great musician, a dedicated baseball fan, and a player of the game. After his completion of personnel Specialist "A" school at Naval Training center, Meridian, MS, He reported aboard Personnel Support Detachment Rota, Spain, and became an absolute customer service provider. He passed away on July 29, 2013.
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Jason was my best friend. Having grown up in the same small town together, we had the same references and the same sense of humor (many didn't understand it!). Because of this we could keep each other entertained for days....no matter how long the car ride or how long we waited places together, like hospitals when he got sick, we could find things to make each other laugh. There is no comparison! Jason loved our daughter, Soni Elizabeth, so much. When she was tiny, he didn't trust anyone to hold her. I know even now; he is looking down protecting she and Albie. Albie didn't get to know Jason the way Soni did, but I pray her humor, that I know she gets from Jason, rubs off on Albie and the two of them will carry a part of him forever.
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George T. Casher Jr. was born in Queens, NY, and graduated from Eastmoore High School. Though he had an opportunity to play baseball at Michigan State University, he chose to serve his country and joined the Navy in 1996. Aboard USS Pasadena, he was a radio man, Drug Free Coordinator, and flag football captain. "Cash," as he was known, was heavily involved with healthy living, weight training, and the lives of his brothers in the fleet. He loved his motorcycle, music, movies and his family. His wife, Ramonda, fondly remembers when he found out that they were pregnant, “He smiled from ear to ear,” she said. Cash did not have an opportunity to meet his son as he passed away before the child’s birth. He is remembered by his wife, Ramonda Anderson, his son, George Micah, his sister, Liane Carter, his brother Lawrence Casher, and his parents, George T. Casher Sr. and Deborah.
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The light of PO1 Kristofer L Guy’s life was his children. Lovingly protective of them, they still talk about “our Daddy”. Raised in a small East Texas town, he was the third of four children and an only son. He loved football and baseball and was named MVP of his high school baseball team his senior year. He served his country proudly.
Chief Ryan A. DeKorte was a native of Portland, Oregon. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in November 2014 and checked aboard USS JASON DUNHAM in November 2015 where he served as Electronics Technician and a Search and Rescue Swimmer. On 8 July 2018, he received the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for his extraordinary quick and decisive actions under pressure in the rapid recovery, treatment, and medical evacuation of an injured shipmate. Seeking greater challenges, Chief DeKorte was selected to Naval Special Warfare Development Group, a Chief of Naval Operations Priority ONE major command. After reporting on board on July 1, 2020, he quickly distinguished himself as an exceptionally gifted problem solver. He dedicated himself to developing and advancing several key command initiatives towards our Nation's greatest threats. Chief DeKorte's knowledge and efforts have had a direct and lasting impact on the operational success of the greater NSW community.
Kevin was a Gentle Giant. He earned the nickname Care Bear from his youth minister. Kevin could be the life of the party, but he knew when to step up and do his job. Kevin could be your best friend, but he could also be your worse enemy – he did not like when others were being picked on for anything out of their control.
Richard joined the Navy 7 DEC 2008 and served as Master at Arms in Georgia, Japan, Cuba and Virginia over his 10 year career with the Navy. He quickly rose through the ranks and was a mentor and leader to many he served with. He enjoyed cars, Star Wars and Pokémon and never stopped when he set is eyes on achieving a goal.
Survived By:
Parents: Deborah and Stephen Holman
Brothers Raymond and Russell Holman.
Because of the circumstances at Bruce’s death, the King of Syria said he needed to make peace with Israel and the doctor attending his wounds said “Mr. and Mrs. Winters, Here brother hates brother. Brother will kill brother. That is why we have so many laws. But in all of Arabia, we have NEVER seen such love as surrounds your son.” (His men had jumped ship to be with him.)
His father was Stationed in England where Bruce was born. Bruce graduated high School at age 7. At 12 & 13 he and his brother were the youngest Sailboat Captains at the military recreation facility at Lake Chemsee, Germany as well as Sail plane pilots. He was a NAVCAD in the Navy, flying a CH36. He also did everything Tom Cruise did in “Top Gun”.
Kevin Sayer Bushell was born and raised in Gaithersburg, MD and joined the Navy after graduating from High School. He always wanted to travel and see the world and knew that joining the Navy was a great way to accomplish that goal. His first duty station was in Rota, Spain. He loved living in Spain and made great friends during his time there. While stationed there he traveled with friends throughout Spain and other countries including Ireland, Italy, and France. One of his favorite things to do was to attend tattoo conventions where he acquired some amazing tattoos. After he left Spain he went for further training in San Diego, CA before going onto his next duty station in Yokosuka, Japan. While stationed at the Yokosuka Naval Base he served as an ET on the USS John S. McCain. While on deployment he enjoyed visiting Australia, Vietnam, Guam, South Korea, and the Philippines. Kevin loved to visit art galleries and collect unusual trinkets during his travels. His fellow sailors on the McCain said Kevin was known as a “Renaissance Man” and his family could not think of a better way to describe him.
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M. Myles James, born September 8, 1998, and called home on June 23, 2021. Myles attended the United States Naval Academy, where he excelled as an English major and proudly played football. He was a dedicated member of the 19th Company and held the rank of Midshipman First Class. Myles’ passing has left a profound void in our hearts, but his legacy of strength, discipline, and love lives on. He will always be remembered as an exceptional son, brother, grandson, and nephew. Deeply loved and forever missed, Myles remains a light in our lives.
Stone Fox was born in Baton Rouge LA, raised in Lafayette, Louisiana. After graduating high school, he left for basic training with a clear goal: to become a Navy Rescue Swimmer. In February 2025, he achieved that dream when he graduated from Search and Rescue (S.A.R.) training. He continued his journey in Jacksonville, Florida, training with HSM-40 Airwolves. Though his time there was cut short in October 2025, Stone’s impact on the people around him was anything but brief. Stone cared deeply for everyone he met. He never met a stranger, and if you knew him, you had a friend for life. His warmth, loyalty, and fierce dedication to others defined him as much as his service did. He is remembered with endless love by his parents, Kristy and Greg, and by his younger brother, Slade. “So Others May Live.”
Aviation Technician, R -Jay wanted to be a navy seal. R-Jay played just about every sport. R-Jay was always fun to be around he made you smile even if you were having a bad day. He hated bullies, he always treated everyone the same.
Survived By: His Parents: Eduardo and Kelly Domondon, a sister Alexsandra Domondon a nephew Ayden Domondon a niece Jinora
Jared "Bo" Valdez
The son everybody wanted. He was funny, dedicated to his family. Loved the world around him. Loved life, loved to share all he had, served his fellowman and served his counrty.
AWS1 James Philip Buriak, USN died 31 August 2021 in a Naval helicopter crash LOOSEFOOT 616 off the coast of San Diego. Where he served as a naval aircrewman rescue swimmer (AWS) with HSC-8.
Jimmy was born, 09 May 1990 in Salem, VA. He graduated from Salem High School, Roanoke College in 2012 and joined the Navy in 2017. He spent time training in San Diego and Pensacola before being assigned to HSC-8 in Coronado, CA. He deployed aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt for two back-to-back tours and multiple detachments before departing for his final flight on the USS Abraham Lincoln.
Jimmy was an uncommon man. He held qualities that could not be given but rather earned. He was an exemplary dad who loved his son Caulder, not only a husband but a soul mate to his wife, a beloved son and brother. Jimmy was an avid crossfitter who would put your endurance and strength to task. He prided himself on physical fitness and being able to not only protect his family, but others if needed. The best example of his courage, heroism, and ability to live up to the motto “So Others May Live '' is when he got his first save at Gun Beach, Guam 08 February 2020 while off duty and earned the Navy Commendation Medal. Jimmy loved his family and lived everyday like it was his last. He held his friends and family close and built memories that will last a lifetime.
In loving memory of Joseph, whose heart was as vast as the sky. He found peace in the simple things—watching sunsets, spending time outdoors, and laughing with friends. His presence was a gift, always bringing joy and warmth to those around him. Though he’s no longer with us, his spirit lives on in every sunset, every Wawa hoagie, every Eagles game and in the memories we hold dear. He will always be remembered, and his light will continue to shine in our hearts. Fair Winds and Following Seas. Go Birds-Veronica brown-sister.
CTT1 (IDW/AW/NAC/SW) was an amazing husband, son, brother, and friend. He was gracious and friendly to every person he met and was never afraid to share any and all of the knowledge he possessed. Although his life was cut all too short, he is sorely missed by all were graced with his presence and resounding personality. Ian was one in a million and can never be replaced in our hearts but he will forever be the kindest and most resilient piece of us that never dies. Although you are gone, you are never ever forgotten. We love you Ian, forever and ever. Love V and the boys.
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Captain Reggie Parks Carpenter also known as “Regbo” to fellow aviators, bravely served in the defense of the United States for 29 years. He flew tactical missions in three jet aircraft, in four operational squadrons, and over six aircraft carrier-based deployments including one as an exchange pilot with the French Navy.
A graduate of the US Naval War College with a Masters in National Security and Strategic Studies, the personal highlight of his career was Commanding Officer of Strike Fighter Squadron EIGHTY-THREE (VFA-83), an F/A-18C Hornet squadron at NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach, VA. He also proudly served in diplomatic roles as Naval Attaché in both Paris, France and Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Captain Carpenter was a highly decorated naval aviator who earned many awards and medals during his career including the Distinguished Flying Cross and Legion of Merit.
A devoted, loving husband and father, he was also a kind, passionate man with a quick wit and a boundless zest for life. Captain Carpenter made the most of his life, fulfilled so many dreams and continues to serve as a model for his surviving wife and daughters.
Ayana was a sailor and full-time student at North Carolina Central University. Ayana was born and raised in San Diego, CA and lived life to the fullest in her 24 years that we had the pleasure of spending with her. Ayana’s infectious smile and laughter would light up any environment that she was in. Ayana is truly missed not only by her parents but her younger brother, older sister and a host of family and friends.
AMP FOREVER 24
Navy Gold Star Testimonials
Gold Star Spouse, California
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.
Gold Star Family
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
Gold Star Family
'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.'
KRIS ROMEO BISHUNDAT'S FAMILY
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
Carol & Andrea
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
Judi and Pat, Gold Star Wives of America, Inc.
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.
Gold Star Dad
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.
Delrio Family
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