Xavier lived his life with the moto "Its me and my dad against the the world. I am the only person he can depend on and vice versa"! My favorite memory was the look in his face when he got his 1st car and when he and I got matching tattoos. I just want the entire world to know who he was and not just some nuts and bolts on the ship! And that he was my best friend, son and little brother I never had.
Xavier Rochon loved music, all music. He played the Viola throughout school; he taught himself to play the piano and composed his first song in middle school. Anything to do with music he wanted to be part of. He decided to join the Navy out of high school and served his country proudly on the Dwight D. Eisenhower as an ET; and while serving he still manage to find music. He was known for always finding the perfect “tunes” for whatever moment was happening onboard the ship at that time. He loved and was loved by his family; his brother and sister, mom and dad; a multitude of cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents. He loved Star Wars, Legos and Transformers, and enjoyed working with kids. He was looking into becoming a teacher after the Navy, a music teacher of course.
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My son, my first born, how do I write a few words about you? You were my little boy that turned into a handsome man. You always were kind, caring, and would go out of your way to help people. If anyone needed help, you were there. I remember when the lady down the street came to my door to say “Shawn saw me struggling to climb the steps and he stopped and carried me up the stairs into my house.”He loved his sisters and always watched where they went and who they were with. I could go on more and more as mother’s’ do.The last time I saw him was in CT. for his first deployment. He was closing the hatch on the USS Boston with a big smile on his face looking towards his family.-Written with love by his mother, Adele.
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Brandon or "Cletus" was known in the P-3 and Navy community as a wonderful and caring Officer. He was a selfless and kind man. He was a P-3 NFO and Mission Commander for many years in the Navy. He also served on the USS Abraham Lincoln as a "Shooter." It was one of his favorite jobs. Brandon was always willing to go the extra mile for his enlisted sailors and was proud to serve along side everyone. He is survived by his wife and two beautiful children. He is missed but not forgotten. He lives on in our memories and we are forever grateful for his 22 years of service and sacrifice for our country.
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He was a very inspired man and a born leader according to The Navy - USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75).
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Amanda was an MH-60S (Sierra) Pilot and served as a Helicopter Aircraft Commander (HAC). She served with honor from May 2014 until her passing on September 18, 2023, following a battle with colon cancer.
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Christopher Kalafut was born in Akron, OH, but considered Oceanside, CA, his hometown. He grew up in California with his parents and four brothers and attended El Camino High School prior to attending college at the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) in Kings Point, NY. In 1987, after college, Christopher joined the Navy and became an E2 pilot. "He always wanted to be a pilot when he grew up," said his wife, Mary. During his Navy career, Mary and Christopher welcomed five children, Marrion, Meaghan, Christopher, Keegan and Michael. During his free time, he enjoyed cycling and swimming as well as the family’s two Labrador retrievers, Kiki and Lala. Chris’s family remembers him as “Chris…God’s great gift to many!”
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Adam Pecaut was more than a service member, he was a husband to Isabella Lena, a son to Doug and Donna Pecaut, a brother to Christina Pecaut, a loyal friend to many, and a daddy to a sweet Golden Retriever named Daisy. Between his desire to travel and golf, there was never a boring weekend when he was home. His time was not long, but nothing short of impactful. He loved Jesus and talking about Him with others, he loved his wife and flipping a new home they bought the year prior to his passing. He was encouraging and supportive to all dreams, big and wide. I have no doubt he’s playing fetch up in Heaven with Daisy and looking down with a smile on his face.
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Ernest was born and raised in western North Carolina. He joined the Navy late in life and earned his place as an FMF Corpsman. He loved his Marines. He had a deep love for his family and friends. He was always the smile and laughter anytime there was a gathering. He enjoyed fishing and riding 4 wheelers and just being outdoors be it in the woods, on the water, or somewhere in between. He was dearly loved and is greatly missed.
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Life with Brent was never ordinary, it was rich with love, laughter, and memories. I’ll never forget the day he told his debate teacher he wanted to be a lobbyist! Instead, the love for his country became his vision, and what a vision it was—he climbed the advancement ladder like it was no one’s business. He especially loved his time attached to NSWG-2. The stories he shared are told by his family and shipmates, and in traditions kept. He changed our world and although his time here was brief, the impact was infinite Brent will forever be in our hearts, always in our thoughts, ever in our memories. He was a beloved son, husband, father, brother, shipmate, and faithful friend.
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This marks year 20 for us. Otter was 23. As I write this, tears come quickly to my eyes as I consider the day I was told; the last moments I saw my son, had the last hug and my last touch, wrapping my arms around the wool blanket which held his remains. So many wonderful people have continued to remember and honor him through these years in their own ways, which warms my heart but also shows what an incredible man he was to so many. I always thought it was because he loved me that he was so kind and thoughtful. I see through those people’s eyes how remarkable he truly was in his kindness, friendship and love for others. Otter was always caring, smiling, trying to make those around him laugh. He was willing to get up and go to enjoy life and experiences with anyone who asked. Otter was adventurous, fun living and had that quirky smile which always made those around him smile right back. Even though some days are still really rough 20 years later, still trying to figure out this new path of life, I am lucky, grateful and honored to be called Otter’s mom. Forever and a day, Love you, Otter.
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Marcus was born in Kansas City, MO to Tommy and Cindy Woods. His family always made sure to find time for laughter and fun and would go on several day trips or longer vacations when school was not in session. Marcus was a cub scout and boy scout and was an Eagle Scout out of Troop 395 in Missouri.
He joined the US Navy out of high school and became a radioman with the USS Missouri SSN-780. He is remembered by his family as a problem solver who put this to use while serving on board the Mighty MO. For example, when cleaning the head for inspection he came up with the idea to zip tie plastic around the metal areas so that when it was time for inspection they only needed to cut the ties off and the metal would still be shiny and ready to pass inspection. One of our favorite memories was the story of when the Missouri was in port off the coast of France. Marcus wanted to show off some dance moves with his buddies so he got on top of a rickety table, one about to fall apart, and began twisting away. The table held up as everyone clapped for him and this feat. We love our Squibby so much and miss him every day.
Tommy, Cindy, and Chris Woods
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Michael entered into the Navy in August 1995 right out of high school. He loved Star Trek and video games so he chose the Enterprise as his first ship. At that time he didn't realize he would make a career out of the Navy. He sailed on several ships and worked his way up to being Sr. Chief Petty Officer. He was very humble about his career so we were unaware of his many accomplishments. He served a little over 22 years. Several months before his retirement, he met with an untimely death. He is greatly missed by those who served under him and by his family at home. We are very proud of Michael.
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Born in New Zealand, raised in Hawaii and KIA Panama “Operation Just Cause”
In the early morning hours of 20 December 1989, Chris Tilghman was killed in action leading his fellow SEALS in combat.
BM1 Chris Tilghman was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star with Distinguishing Device for valor.
Chris was an animal lover, he once owned 10 cats. He also loved surfing, skiing, bowling and collecting old piggy banks.
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NCTS Guam
Anna was a shining light for many. She was always willing to help her fellow Sailor; community was very important to her. She volunteered at least every other week in some service to her community, from reading to children to running marathons. The Navy lost a true heroine with which many looked up to for guidance and inspiration. Her loss forever changed me. – Written by Rouen Sterling, Gold Star Spouse
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Dear Commander Douglas "Dorothy" Morea, For almost 24 years, you successfully and humbly served your country as an officer in the US Navy. You were often called on to put your life on the line to keep all of us free and safe. We are proud to say that you did so without second thoughts or regrets. You are an inspiration to all the men and women who served with you as well as for those who will follow. The ride you took us on was awe inspiring and we are grateful to have been a part of it. Rest in peace, you will always be in our thoughts. Love, The Morea Family
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Jaden was a singer, a dancer, musician, and an all-around goofball. Jaden enjoyed a variety of activities, both independently and with others, helping form his identity, as well as lifelong bonds and memories. He loved ping-pong, bowling, board games, etc. When it came to sports, Jaden did not discriminate, playing soccer, baseball, basketball, and football. He departed for boot camp followed by training in his chosen specialty of Master-At-Arms, while stationed in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, he garnered recognition and respect as a result of his sense of dedication and service. Of all his accomplishments, though, I have no doubt, Jaden took the most pride in his marriage to Jo’Niyah, and the birth of their daughter Lay’Lani. Jaden was a lover, not a fighter, despite his shenanigans physical in nature. From a young age, he expressed a desire for the world to be better. Jaden was good.
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Danielle was a beautiful, compassionate, cynical, intelligent and an inspiring young woman - she was one of a kind. Danielle was always eager to put herself and everything around her to the test.
Danielle loved to sketch, journal, debate, and she also enjoyed writing short science fiction stories. She was a voracious reader and a lover of different genres of music and movies. Danielle sketched a “Tree of Life”, with rainbow roots which later became her first tattoo. It was incredibly special to her since it represented her coming out to the world as a bisexual woman.
Danielle had an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a passion for mentoring others. She loved to travel, and she embraced all cultures. She enjoyed sharing these new experiences with others.
Danielle was always looking out for the underdog. She had an amazing sense of compassion and patience for others. She often withheld passing judgement and was very loyal to her friends and family. Danielle understood that words were not always necessary and just spending time together was enough. Her smile and laughter were very contagious. Danielle went out of her way to talk to you when you needed it most, regardless of what she was going through. She was a beacon of light to everyone around her.
Danielle, you took a piece of us with you the day you left. We shall forever love you and keep your memory until that day that once more, we can hold you close.
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USS Barbel SS-580
Lost at Sea. Eternal Patrol 5-1-1989
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LCDR Kenneth Buell was born in Louisville, Ky., on Aug. 24, 1939, as the only child of Louis and Libby Buell of Xenia, Ohio. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and married Mary in June 1963.
While assigned to VA-35 at NAS Oceana, Va., he deployed to Vietnam in the summer of 1972 embarked on the USS AMERICA (CVA 66). On Sept. 17, 1972, CDR Verne G. Donnelly, pilot and Skipper of VA-35, and Kenneth launched from USS AMERICA (CVA 66) on a combat mission over the vicinity of Hai Duong, North Vietnam. As their aircraft was about 8 miles west of the city, heavy AAA fire followed by a large fireball were reported along their flight path and it was assumed that they were shot down and both declared Missing in Action. He remains listed as MIA after 42 years.
Mary never remarried and resides in Gig Harbor, Wash., along with Susan, their daughter, who has two children Aidan and Trinity. Their son, Richard, has served in the Navy for 23 years as a Supply Corps Officer. He is assigned to NAVAIR in Patuxent River, Md., working as a Business Financial Manager for the Air ASW Systems Program Office (PMA-264). He and his wife, Kimberly, of Powhatan Point, Ohio, have two children Alexis and Evan.
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Michael “Mike” McGreevy, Jr. was one of eight Navy Seals in the group of 16 service members killed June 28, 2005, when their MH-47 Chinook helicopter was shot down in the mountains of Afghanistan. Born in Milwaukee, WI, Mike grew up in Portville, NY, where he excelled in athletics and taught himself how to speak German. He graduated first in his class at the Naval Academy in 1997. “He pushed himself very hard and accomplished so much in his short life, but he was best known for being a very personable and humble guy who was always looking out for others,” said his mother, Patricia. Recalling a fond memory, she tells of a trip she took with Mike Jr. to Block Island with Michael Sr. and their Jack Russell Terrier, Loki, one January. “It was freezing and everything was locked so we walked the whole island to stay warm. Mike frequently put Loki inside his pea coat because the poor dog had short hair,” said Michael Sr. “What could have been a miserable cold day turned out to be, like so many things with Mike, an adventure, the memory of which I still cherish. Miss him every day. He was a gift.” Mike is remembered by his wife, Laura, his daughter, Molly, and his mother and father, Patricia and Michael.
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Master at Arms Petty Officer 3rd Class Duffy was born on March 30, 2001 to Lori and Andrew Duffy of Wareham Massachusetts. Kyle was the youngest of five and the brother to Amy, Juanita, Merissa and Zachary. Kyle was stationed at Naval Base Guam and died unexpectedly while on duty on August 12, 2024. Kyle was the person when you talked about great people who cared about others and would listen to everyone's life story and show he really cared for others. He loved fishing and literally has a fishing rod store at home in Wareham. Our family is truly heartbroken and we will never forget his kind heart. He is buried at the National Cemetery in Bourne, Massachusetts a very peaceful place. WE LOVE YOU KYLE
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Jaxon was/is larger than life. From the time he was born until the day he was born into eternal life he was full of energy, enthusiasm, compassion, humor, and a lot of love. He was a friend to all who knew him. Jaxon was incredibly intelligent. Scoring a 98 on his ASVAB! He was a mama's boy at heart and sure knew how to have a good time. One of his favorite things to do was spend time with "his buds" or his family. He is deeply missed and the world will never be the same for many of us that love him.
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Tom served twenty-nine years of honorable and dedicated Active Duty and Reserve service as a U.S. Navy SEAL Officer serving on SEAL teams based on both the East Coast (Little Creek) and West Coast (Coronado). His service to our Nation includes deployments to Operation Desert Storm, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Djibouti, Fallujah, Mongolia, Yemen, the Philippines, and other regions of conflict, making a tremendous impact on all those who served with him. His medals and commendations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Joint Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy Marine-Corps Commendation medal, Navy Achievement Medal, and numerous unit and campaign awards. Tom was interred with full military honors at Section 60 of Arlington National Cemetery. Tom is greatly missed by his family, his military family, and his friends.
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Michael David Saldana Jr. was born in Corpus Christi, Texas, in 1996, and tragically passed away at the age of 26 on May 6, 2022. He served in the Navy, holding the rank of second-class petty officer. Michael shared a close bond with his brother, who was 10 years younger, and loved him deeply. He enjoyed playful moments, such as posing with bunny ears in pictures. Michael had a passion for reading books, playing video games, and taking drives along the California coast in his beloved 2-door Mercedes, a car he proudly purchased on his own. He was known for his caring, generous nature, always willing to help others and give selflessly, even offering the shirt off his back. Michael’s free-spirited personality and kind heart left a lasting impact on all who knew him, and while he is deeply missed, he will forever be cherished in their hearts.
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John Thomas Larimer was born in the early morning hours of February 16, 1985. He grew up with his four older siblings in Crystal Lake, IL. John graduated with honors from University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. John became fourth-generation Navy when he enlisted and went to Great Lakes in February, 2011. Next was CTR-A school and then stationed at Buckley AFB in Aurora, CO.
We last saw John in early July, 2012 and he told us he was being encouraged to go to OCS and become an officer. After John’s death, we learned that they had started a mentoring award in his name because he had been mentoring other military personnel on and off the job. We also learned that he was doing extremely well with his assigned job.
John didn’t die because of his Navy service. He died in a mass shooting at a movie theater on July 20, 2012
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Vincent Lee Ingellis, 42, was born October 24, 1977, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and passed away peacefully at home near Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, on March 20, 2020. A proud U.S. Navy First Class Petty Officer, Vincent honorably served for 20 years, including deployments in Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. He dreamed of retiring, starting a new chapter, and one day returning to the mountains of Puerto Rico to start a farm. Though his plans were tragically cut short, those who knew him were forever touched by his love, laughter, and generosity. Vincent was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend. He could often be found grilling, working on cars, lending a helping hand, or dreaming big about the future—especially for his daughter. His vibrant personality and infectious sense of humor will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who loved him.
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Jacob was born in Jackson, Mississippi and grew up in Highland Heights, KY where he graduated high school in 2017. He was very proud to join the Navy in February of 2019 and was stationed on the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN75) in Norfolk, VA after graduating from A school in Pensacola, FL as an Air Traffic Controller (AC). With the Truman, he completed one deployment to the Mediterranean and Arabian Seas. He was a kind and generous person who saw himself as the protector of those around him and was the first one to step up if someone needed help. He is terribly missed by family and friends every day.
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Rich wanted to join the Navy from the time he was a little boy according to his parents, Jesse & Sue Allen. Rich was the only child to Jesse and Sue Allen, and he loved them more than life itself.
He joined the Sea Cadets www.seacadets.org when he was 11 years old until he was 18 years old and then enlisted in the Navy immediately after Highschool, and went into the LDO program 10 years later. He was on Submarines for most of his career. He was the epitome of and outstanding enlisted Sailor 10 years as well as Officer for 11 years when he unexpectedly passed away on 08/09/10.
There is so much I can tell you about him, He was a Godly man and he loved his family with all his heart and soul, but when it came to the Navy, there was a gleem in his eye that no one could take away. I have never seen anyone love their career as much as he did his, and I have grown up my whole life connected to the military, as my father was in the Navy for 33 years. To this day, no one can compare.
Rich and I have 4 children together. Our daughter Emily, is married to Captain John Henderson. Our oldest son STS2 Dean Allen, he is married to Carrie and they have our 1st Granddaughter Zoey, Our middle son Garrett, he is married to Ana, and they have our 2nd Granddaughter Eliana , and our youngest son AC3 Dayton Allen followed his father's footsteps and joined the Navy as well.
Rich was able to swear our 2 oldest son’s into the Military, but passed away before he could our youngest, so our son in law swore Dayton into the Navy.
Forever in our Hearts <3
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My late husband Delmer Wallen (an E-7) proudly served God and country in the US Navy. When he first joined, he was mostly stationed over in Japan. This was from 1982-1986. Neither of us knew each other then. After we started dating, he was serving in the Navy Reserves. In 2000 Delmer got called back to active duty. he worked at the Washington Navy Yard and Great Lakes near Chicago. In 2004 he was over in Djibouti, Africa. After we married in 2005, he was stationed in Norfolk. In 2008 he was over in Kuwait. Some of my favorite memories with him were the Military Appreciation Days at Busch Gardens, Kings Dominion, the Norfolk Zoo, and Williamsburg. Baseball game, ice hockey game, and spending day at waterpark were also fun. These were also Military Appreciation Day events. I also enjoyed the Friends and Family Day cruise and the other times that I was on the ships. After living in Norfolk, we moved to West Virginia in 2010. We attended a few dining out events there and also in Norfolk. While there Delmer served as a Navy recruiter until God called him home. I was very blessed to be married to him.
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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 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.
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
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.'
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