Erik M. Sweet

Aaron Fowler lived his first 18 years in Tulsa, OK, where he was born. Upon graduation from the Naval Academy, he was selected for service with EOD. He took 1 ½ years to earn a Masters in Arabic Studies @ Georgetown University then completed the two-year EOD training pipeline before reporting for duty in San Diego in January of 2022. The three things most important to Aaron were the gospel of Jesus Christ, community and challenges, in that order! He found ways to work all three of these together no matter where he was or what he was doing. He located a community of Christians at the Naval Academy which led to two years of missions work in North Africa. He utilized every opportunity to travel around the world, but his destination in the US was Washington, DC, where he connected frequently with friends and roommates from his home church. Aaron is missed by his parents and three brothers as well as many friends and family around the globe.  We are thankful for his Navy family's remembrance of him on this earth, and we are comforted by the thought that his name is written in the Lamb’s Book of Life, NEVER to be forgotten!

Petty Officer 1st Class (PO1) John Michael Miller was born on November 17th, 1981, the only child of John H. and Lanita (Sconce) Miller Smith in Columbia, Missouri. Known as “John” in the Navy, “Michael” by his family, and “Mike” by his buds, he was respected and loved by all. 

Sports and the Navy were his life. Between playing soccer from the age of 7, to making the all-state team in high school, he knew sports, both college and pros. An avid fan of the Jayhawk Men's basketball, St. Louis Cardinals, and pro basketball and soccer, his knowledge of different sports and players amazed others.

Michael was so highly successful in his Navy Career that at the time of his death, he had qualified for an early promotion [Chief Petty Officer]. All the while, he never let his family know of his Navy success or high security clearance.

Michael was a giver and team player even in the Navy. He gave the gift of life in death, through organ donation. He was a loving and fabulous son and a friend to many. Our hearts are still broken at his passing. 

Athan grew up in a small town called Nederland, Tx and graduated in 2000. Athan grew up playing sports mainly soccer and football. He achieved the Eagle Scout rank by age 16 and joined the Navy in 2001. After schooling at Great Lakes, he trained with the Marines in NC. He finished his schooling at Pensacola in Aviation Medicine in 2003 and was assigned to NAS Lemoore, Ca. He met his wife Catherine and was married in 2005. Their daughter Cailey was born in December 2005. While assigned to the USS Abraham Lincoln he was part of the crew that helped the people affected by the tsunami in 2004. He enjoyed working with the pilots and loved going with them on trainings. Sadly his last training was at AF base Elmendorf, Ak.

PO1 Navy Corpsman Alexander Vernon was kind, loving, and deeply thoughtful, with a gentle spirit that touched everyone he met. His giving nature was evident in the way he helped others without being asked and in the simple, genuine warmth he shared through a smile or kind word. Intelligent and quick-witted, he brought light and laughter wherever he went.  He had a special love for animals, especially kittens, reflecting the same compassion he showed to others. To his family, his mom, dad, and sister, he was a constant source of pride, joy, and love and was loved beyond words. His kindness, humor, and generous heart remain with all who knew him.  Alexander will never be forgotten and always remembered with love, respect, and honor. He is survived by his loving parents, Michael and Dawn, and his sister, Emily Coyle, and her husband, Eric, along with their children, Evelyn and Ethan.

Shianne “Shi” Taylor Soles, age 19, was taken from this world on May 4, 2019. She was born and raised in Spokane, Washington. From the day she was born, she was a bright light that would flood the room wherever she went. As a young girl she spent many years involved in dance she loved music and to express herself and entertain others. She was always active, participating in basketball, volleyball, cross country, track, DECA, and cheerleading. She loved being a part of a team and encouraging others to do their best. She loved road trips and cheering on Husky football. Most of all, she loved to laugh. She had a passion for life, and the desire to be a part of something bigger.

She arrived at U.S. Navy Recruit Training Command on July 18th and graduated September 14th, 2018. She then attended Hospital Corpsman 'A' School in San Antonio, Texas where she graduated in January 2019. Soon after, she arrived at her first duty station, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth where she was assigned to the immunization clinic under the Directorate of Public Health services where she successfully immunized over 150 patients including active duty and civilian beneficiary personnel.

Warrant Officer W-1, U.S. Navy

Veteran of:

U.S. Navy 1946-1948, 1949-1954, 1955-1968
Cold War 1946-1968
Korean War 1950-1951
Vietnam War 1967-1968 (KIA)

Gene Tinnin was born April 11, 1929, in Houston, Texas. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 11, 1946. He was a mess cook at Reception Station Treasure Island, California, then as a guard at Fleet Activity Yokosuka, Japan. He served aboard the heavy cruiser USS Chicago (CA-136) and the aircraft carrier USS Ticonderoga (CV-14).

Petty Officer Tinnin reenlisted in the Navy on April 5, 1949, and then served as an electronics technician (ET) aboard the heavy cruiser USS Macon (CA-132). He was an ET aboard the battleship USS Missouri (BB-63) including Korea.

Petty Officer Tinnin attended Underwater Demolition Team (UDT) training with Class 009 at NAB Little Creek, Virginia, from July to October 1952, and then served with UDT-4 until he left active duty on April 9, 1954.

He reenlisted in the Navy on December 7, 1955, and served as an ET aboard the USS Vandivier.

Petty Officer Tinnin again attended UDT training with Class 017 at NAB Little Creek followed by service with UDT-21 at Little Creek. His next assignment was with SEAL Team TWO at NAB Little Creek, followed by Officer Candidate School for Warrant Officer training.

He was appointed a Warrant Officer in the U.S. Navy and served with SEAL Team ONE at NAB Coronado, California. He deployed to South Vietnamuntil he was killed in action on August 20, 1968.

Kevin graduated from Tolar High School in Tolar, TX in 2009.  He chose to go to the Navy to help pay for college and for the discipline he knew he needed.  He was known for his giant smile and innocence.  It was easy to find him during Boot Camp graduation because he was (even though he was probably not supposed to) smiling from ear to ear.  His friends in the Navy were protective of him and hold him in very high regard even now.  

Mario Francisco Espino, a Navy Aircrewman, avid waterman, and proud local of Kailua, Hawaii, was born October 1st, 1987, in El Paso, Texas. He passed September 30th, 2020, the day before his 33rd birthday. Mario served as full-time support for VR-51 Windjammers at Kaneohe Marine Corps Base, which not only allowed him the opportunity to explore the world but provided him with an extended Navy family that he deeply cherished. 

Mario lived a vibrant and active life, embracing every moment to its fullest. He enjoyed traveling the world while at the same time pursuing his passions for surfing and photography. He exemplified the “Spirit of Aloha” through his profound love for the island, its people, and his devotion to his wife, family, God, and friends. Mario’s love of the ocean was only surpassed by the love and aloha he spread with everyone fortunate enough to have met him.

Gregory Ellis's dedication to service lead him to the United States Navy, where he embraced the call of duty with honor and commitment. He carried with him the values of integrity, strength, and loyalty traits that defined both his military service and his personal life. Greg always made time for his family and friends. With his trademark sense of humor, infectious laugh, and big smile, he knew how to make even the most serious situations light-hearted and fun. He will be remembered as someone with a giving heart, gentle spirit, and friend to all.

Our son Chris was a very studious boy who from an early age showed an interest in flying.  His love of flying increased as he grew older and the Navy F14 Tomcat was his love.  He applied to the USNA and was so thrilled to be accepted.  It was a tough four years but he achieved his goal and was accepted to flight school.  He was stationed at NAS Kingsville where he earned his wings and became a Navy pilot flying the F-18 Hornet.  Another dream he had was to become a Test Pilot which he also achieved.  He loved flying but unfortunately his life was cut short in April 2002 due to a training accident while testing an aerobatic plane at Pax River.  Chris died doing what he loved. We will never forget him.

Billy was an outgoing energetic man with an infectious smile and laugh who always went out of his way to help anybody, especially the “underdog”. Billy always went above and beyond to help those in need of learning, and pushed them to reach their goal working right along with them, never giving up on them, or anybody throughout his life. He loved sports, a natural born athlete. A definite competitor and would not give up on his game or anyone. Billy joined the USN proudly in 2003 receiving many awards and medals and had planned on retirement. He worked hard and achieved every goal he set for himself ( which were many) and wouldn’t stop!! Billy lost three of his four children along with him.

His children Jojo, Kaylee, Jacob, and Brooke were his world and while on shore duty they were with him every given moment. Billy left behind his wife Jonielle, a son Jacob, and mom Edith Spillers.

Forever my hero

Ronald Shousky, Second Class Master of Arms, was born on March 4th, 1997. Ron was a hardworking man who had a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and served in the Navy. He was stationed in Sasebo, Japan and lived with his wife, Brooke Lyons, when he passed away on September 18th, 2024. Every day Ron brainstormed ways on how he could be the best version of himself and how he could leave this world a better place. He spread positivity, love, wisdom, acceptance, encouragement, kindness, and knowledge to everyone around him. He was the voice of reason to his parents and younger siblings. In the words of Ron, "Don't just talk about, be about it." Ron was named “One of One” by his command, CFAS.

From the moment he opened his eyes each morning, Lance Cpl. Eric Levi Ward surged with vivacious life and energy.  Even in combat, those who loved him spoke of the life and joy in which he brought to every situation.  Eric died February 21, 2010 in Helmand Province, Afghanistan at the age of 19.

Born in Fairfax, VA on August 17^th, 1990.  Those who knew him cherished his genuine ability to make you laugh, even through the most difficult of times.

Eric lived a full life in a short 19 years.  He traveled the world, and experienced great successes in friendships and family.  He was a natural athletic leader and lived a life full of adventure and experience. 

Eric entered the United States Marines Corps immediately after high school, continuing on a 4^th generation legacy in his family. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment. He captured the hearts of his fellow troops and served beside them without hesitation, and when it came to giving up the thing that mattered most, he gave his life. Eric Levi Ward is a hero. He will be loved and missed dearly, but never forgotten.

My grandfather, AE1 Melvin Carl Thompson served 14 years in the US Navy from 1953-1968. He was born on May 24th, 1935 in Colquitt, Miller County, Georgia.  He was stationed at NAS Jacksonville, Pensacola and Brunswick, ME during his marriage to my grandmother. They had 4 children during his time. He was killed during his final flight on Feb 6, 1968 doing recon work over the Gulf of Siam. He was onboard the USS Taluga AO-62 and the USS Burton Island AGB-1 (Blue Nose Arctic Circle). At the tragic age of 32 he was flying when the P3 (BUNO 153440) crashed into the ocean, killing all crew-members, during a Market Time Patrol over the Gulf of Siam. He left a widow and four children and his parents, sisters, brothers and grandkids. Gone but never forgotten. Fair winds and following seas for all those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom.  

Randy Kirk Johnson Jr. was a devoted husband, father, and service member. Joining the Navy in January 1999, he quickly excelled—making Chief early in his career before transitioning to the officer ranks. Dedicated and ambitious, he was the one people relied on, always leading with wisdom and kindness. Beyond his service, Randy’s greatest love was his family. He adored our daughter, who was his strength and motivation through life’s challenges. Loving, caring, and full of life, his easygoing nature made him a friend to all. His legacy lives on in the love he gave, the memories he left behind, and the family who will always cherish him.

SGT Brandon G McCoy was born and raised in Northwest Washington, DC. He is survived by his loving wife, Alicia, and his children; step-son Jerry (28) and daughters, Carson (20) and Natalie (16). He was a big hulking man with an extremely deep bass voice and he loved to laugh loud, and long. Most of the time he was really serious, but had a huge playful side. He often let his daughters’ paint his fingernails and they would play tea party with the “pinkies up”. He loved music, movies, hunting and fishing. He was an accomplished swimmer, who competed in many open water events in his youth and was lifeguard certified from the age of 14 forward.

Throughout his military career, he served in two branches. First as an underwater welder and HT in the Navy from 1999-2007; and then as an Allied Trade Specialist in the Army from 2007-2012. Brandon, “Big Mac” to all his co-workers, liked the Navy, but LOVED the US Army. While there, he was stationed at Fort Campbell, KY, 101^st Airborne Division, working w/units in Field Artillery, Special Forces, and more. He was an amazing soldier, a respected SGT, a hard worker, and good friend to all who knew him. Brandon never said no when he was needed somewhere, and always invited single service members to our home during the holidays because he wanted them to never feel alone. He is loved and missed beyond compare by his family and friends.

Written by his loving wife,

Alicia D McCoy,

Installation Navy Gold Star Program Coordinator

Keon Askew graduated from Nuclear Sub School in Groton, Connecticut. He became a Fire Control Technician on nuclear missiles. His submarine is the USS San Francisco 711. As a Christian he like to feed and fellowship with his shipmates. He had a good heart. He is dearly missed.   

When Ben was little, he said he wanted to grow up and have 100 kids - name 5 after his siblings and parents and name the other 95 Ben. Luckily, he changed his plans to finishing his undergraduate degree while on active duty and to go to law school when he retired. He always said his main Navy goal was to out rank his Dad a Chief, and Mom a Senior Chief Petty Officer before he was through. His ultimate goal was to be the first Navy Nuke on the Federal Bench. 

SO1 US NAVY SEAL KIA: 11-24-12, Afghanistan

Kevin took on everything he did with quiet confidence, a positive outlook, and intense interest in even the most mundane details. He was a professional soldier of the highest caliber, calculating, tough and dedicated. He was a steadying influence to those under his command and inspired confidence in his commanders. Kevin was also a trustworthy, reliable and genuinefriend. All who knew him will attest to his strength of character, his discipline and his resolute determination. His teammates described him as “A gentle soul who was tough as nails.”On his second deployment with SEAL Team 4, Kevin’s team came under fire, pinned down and sure to suffer severe casualties. Without regard to his own safety, Kevin removed himself from cover to radio for support. By doing so he saved all of his teammates and was the only loss of life when a sniper hit him from a vantage point above.Kevin was one of the best medics in the Teams. He received two Bronze Stars with Valor for his life saving actions during both deployments. At the time of his death, he had just received approval for an early discharge. He had been accepted at ODU in VA where he planned to complete his education to become a doctor.All who knew Kevin have attested to the positive impact he had on their lives. Survived by his family, friends, and teammates, he is missed dearly.

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.