Colby was a dedicated Soldier, a loving son, and brother. He will forever be remembered as 22. Taken from us too soon. We must fight like Colby. Cancer Sucks!!
Alexander Martyn Gimbutas
Alexander was born in Vilnius, Lithuania, and spent his earliest childhood in an orphanage. Adopted at age four and a half, he came to California, first to Los Angeles and soon to Lucerne Valley, in the high desert close to Big Bear. Here he attended elementary and high school, made many friends, and enjoyed outdoor activities—sports and scouting. During elementary school, he played soccer and baseball; in high school, he distinguished himself in football and wrestling, earning numerous awards. He also did well academically and joined the Future Farmers of America. He belonged to the local Cub Scouts, as well as the Lithuanian Scouts Association, which met in Los Angeles and held summer camps in the Big Bear hills.
When the time came to attend college, Alexander opted to join the Navy and went to Chicago for basic training in 2009. He finished at the top of his class and was offered computer work on a submarine. However, he chose to join the USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) a few months later and sail to Japan. He had been interested in Japan and studied the Japanese language in high school. The news of Alexander’s death due to an accidental fall in Yokosuka in September 2010 was a terrible blow to his family and friends.
Besides funeral services in Kaunas, Lithuania, there were several memorials in California for Alexander – Martyn, as we called him. He was remembered for his excellent service in the Navy by Naval officers, for his extraordinarily good and friendly character by family and friends; for his leadership in the Lithuanian Scouts by fellow scouts. Martyn loved animals as well as people. He enjoyed good food and good times. He was a whiz with computers and apparatuses of all kinds. But his most fervent interest seemed to be nature and “survival in nature.” Early on, he explored Lucerne Valley with his buddy Chris Anderson; then Big Bear hills with the scouts, and on our travels, numerous places in Lithuania with family and relatives.
Martyn enriched the lives of everyone he knew; his memory thrives among family, friends and shipmates. We are forever thankful for his brief but splendid presence among us.
(Živile Gimbutas, mother)
Navy Gold Star Tributes
David enlisted in November of 1970 at the age of 18 years old during the Vietnam war. He served 30 years in the U.S. Navy, some of his proudest accomplishments during his career were serving as Command Master Chief, being named NROTC Recruiter of the Year along with serving aboard various Navy vessels. He died April 19, 2001 while assigned to shore duty, NRD Kansas City. He was proud to serve his country and was honored at the opportunity to protect it.
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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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
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.
Lt.J.G. Asante McCalla was a proud Morehouse College graduate, Naval officer, and devoted son. A brilliant young leader with a quiet strength and a heart for justice, he worked to elevate the NROTC program at Morehouse College and inspired his peers with unwavering determination and kindness. Asante served with distinction aboard the USS Lake Erie. Though we still await answers about his mysterious disappearance at sea, we hold fast to the legacy of the young man who loved deeply, led with integrity, and lived to uplift others. His impact continues through the stories we tell, the lives he touched, and the honor he brought to our family and community. We are forever proud of our son—our hero.
Nathaniel, loss of a son, brother, and friend that God must have needed more. He was a terrific friend, husband, sailor, uncle, brother and son. Nathaniel was a giver by nature and loved helping others. He loved his family, cherished his friends and was an extremely talented artist with various mediums, paper, pencil, wood, etc… Those who knew him, knew how much he wanted to be a father, and even though he never got to be one, I’m sure he is playing guardian angel to the children that were in his life. Of course, smiling, he was always smiling even on his bad days, he smiled. Thou his body is gone, I have no doubts he is happy and working hard to help others, all while smiling next to our Father’s side in heaven. Nathaniel was always a hard worker, proud of the Navy, through and through. Though White House Communication Agency is normally a peak in any airman, soldier, sailor or coast-guard’s career, he wanted to go to JCU, Joint Communications Unit. So, he worked hard to get accepted into JCU. He endured surgery to go to jump school and was so thrilled when he was accepted. He survived Afghanistan and thou tragic, he died doing what he does best…helping another in need. Rest in peace dear son, rest in peace until we meet again. Love, Dad and Mom.
Marcques enjoyed his life like no other!!!His Wife, family & friends have him in their hearts forever. He enjoyed fine dining, golf, backgamon, fishing, shopping, Nike, Reptiles, Snowboarding, Racquetball, darts, football, basketball & more. We still miss & love Him soooo much. He is a born again Christian so is with Jesus now.
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CM1 Stephen M Kuhry was born on 5/7/88 and was my oldest son. He was very smart and never dull. He passed on 6/24/2017, three weeks before his youngest son was born. He was loved by many and made me a very proud momma and a proud grandma. I will love him forever.
Robert "Robby" Miner III was born in New Hyde Park, NY in 1987 where graduated from New Hyde Park Memorial High School and was a volunteer fire fighter. He joined the Navy in 2006, where he proudly served as a Master-at-Arms. Robby always wanted to be a police officer and held various positions that allowed him to excel within his job. Robby grew up with his dog, Biddy, along with his parents and brother. According to his father, Robby loved to figure out how things worked and make repairs as needed. Robby had planned to become a Mustang (Enlisted to Officer rank), as he was very patriotic and a natural leader. He enjoyed outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and geocaching with his wife and two sons. He is remembered by his wife Deanna, their sons, Triston and Gavin, his parents, Rob and Laurie, and his brother, Max.
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MDSN 1st class 2013 USNA Remembering and honoring my son whose light inspired everyone he came to know. Always and forever loved.
My son Jamaica George was April 8th 1996 in Clarksville TN. He went to Kenwood elementary, middle and high school where he graduated in 2014. He was a quiet person but very caring and also funny. He was so helpful and kind. Always wanted to see others happy. He loves reggae music in which Bob Marley is one his favorite artist. Jamaica is the youngest of 3 boys. RIP my son love and miss you.
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To ShaCool,
There hasn’t been a day we haven’t said your name or missed your smile. Every day is a constant reminder of how precious and short life can be there is an emptiness that can’t be filled since you’ve been gone but we will work every day to make you proud as you did all of us! Fair Winds and Following Seas Seaman Bell! We Love you.
Written in love by his mother,
Stephanie Clavon
Vian was born on September 8, 1994 in Paterson, New Jersey. He was full of life and the family comedian. He moved to Virginia with his mother in August 1995 and eventually graduated in 2012 from Churchland High Schools in Portsmouth, VA where he was a member of the football team, track & field team and played the tuba in the school orchestra. After completing a year at Virginia State University, he decided to enlisted into the United States Navy in January 2014 and went to boot camp that July. He began his brief military career as an Aviation Ordnanceman. He was stationed in san Diego, CA aboard the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). When he wasn’t on duty, he was either playing basketball, working out, or hanging out with his shipmates who became his brothers. He tragically lost his life in an automobile accident on January 1, 2016 on his way back to the ship for duty. Not a day goes by that I don’t think about Vian. Lovingly submitted by his mother.
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Sabrina, my beautiful blued-eyed angel.
You greeted this world wide awake at 6:00 a.m. on the dot. You used to love to read before you could “actually” read. You loved to sing, dance and you were quite the little actress. Snowboarding, fishing, camping and most outdoor sports were among your many interests. You rarely turned down an opportunity to volunteer, complete a puzzle, play a board game or accept a challenge to a game of spades. You had a passion for photography as well as crafting and crocheting. You were a runner and completed the Seattle “Rock N Roll” half-marathon.
You never accepted anything less than an “A” grade on your assignments, received your Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice and were on your way to achieving your Master’s in Forensic Psychology.
I grew to realize that you had found your niche in the Army; receiving several awards, decorations and medals, most notably, the Eighth Army Soldier of the Year Award and the Meritorious Service Medal.
You never missed an opportunity to make someone else smile.
You loved your country, the Army, the JAG, your soldiers, animals (stuffed or otherwise), your friends, your family and especially your daughter.
I have always been so proud of you and feel incredibility blessed to be your Momma. You were the most amazing daughter and a beautiful soul!
I thank God for every minute I had with you. As long as I live, I will search for moments of you in my memories.
We are proud of your service to our Nation. I love and miss you with all my heart-Odessa.
Jason was born on June 9th 1986 and brought nothing but joy to our lives from the moment he entered this world. Jason was a constant thread of love as a son, brother, husband and father who viewed life through a lens of optimism. Jason had a contagious smile and unwavering determination, he pursued his passions and inspired all of us with his unique spirit.
In his journey through life, he exhibited a resilience that was nothing short of remarkable, facing his challenges, he stood tall, facing them with courage and grace. With determination and perseverance, Jason pursued his dreams, carving out a path of success that was built on hard work, dedication and belief in his abilities.
Jason’s legacy will live on leaving footprints of love and kindness wherever he went. My beloved son, your journey on this earth was a beautiful symphony of love, joy and inspiration. You will forever be in our hearts. Love from Mom and Lisa.
Charla was born 11/17/1981 and left this world on 4/24/2024. Charla was an exceptional and loving mother, daughter, sister, aunt, granddaughter, niece, and friend. Charla always made you feel special. She was so funny and could keep you laughing you could never be sad when she was around. Charla was an awesome cook and could build anything she set her mind on. Everything Charla determined in her mind to do, she done it with great pride and excellency. Charla started her Navy career as an E3 and worked her way up to a CWO3 in her twenty-three years of service to the US Navy. Charla wore her uniform with pride and dignity. Charla always went above and beyond whatever her task may have been. We miss our girl deeply; words cannot even express the loss of this wonderful soul. Until we meet again our precious daughter, we will always remember the wonderful and special person that you were. You would always say" I try so hard " . You were a giver, and you gave all you had.
Loving and remembering you always,
Mama Daddy, Dylan and Family
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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He was a very inspired man and a born leader according to The Navy - USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75).
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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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.
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.
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
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
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.
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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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
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.
Navy Gold Star Testimonials
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
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
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.
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 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.'