“Forever Loved, Never Forgotten”
The Navy Gold Star Program is eternally grateful for the sacrifice of those Service Members who have died in service to our country. To help us to never forget, we have set up this tribute page to honor and remember the memory of those lives. If you would like to honor the memory of your Sailor, Soldier, Marine, Airman or Coast Guardsman through the Navy Gold Star website please submit your thoughts and a photo.
We honor our son, Dr. John Zenzius Thomas, LT USN, by remembering not only what he accomplished, but how he made us feel—loved, supported, and inspired. John was a gifted Navy physician, yet his greatest gift was the joy and encouragement he gave to everyone around him. We treasure the memories of him golfing with his grandparents, and the way his eyes lit up when climbing rock walls—always reaching higher, always striving. He showed us that life was an adventure to be embraced, never feared. John’s laughter, his compassion, and his courage continue to guide us. Though our hearts ache, we carry his spirit forward, honoring the remarkable man he was and the love he left behind.