Mark Stets Jr.

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.  

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.

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. 

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.   

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

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.

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.

SPC Geoffrey A. Whitsitt 118th MP 503rd Battalion

Geoff was my first best friend. He was born when I was six years old and I'll never forget the first time holding my baby brother. As we grew up, we obviously had the sibling fights, but we always had each others backs. Geoff was a vivacious singer with a beautiful voice. He was selected to be a part of a children's choir in our home state of South Carolina, which was a huge accomplishment because the children's choir was almost impossible to get into!Our life paths went separate directions. I joined the Navy in 2005 and Geoff joined the Army, shortly after he graduated high school. He went to boot camp in Fort Leonard Wood and then MP school, followed by Airborne school in Fort Benning. I deployed for the fifth time to Bahrain and he went on his first deployment to Afghanistan.On January 13, 2010, I called home to talk with my wife. She was pregnant at the time with our first daughter. I immediately knew something was wrong when she answered. "Geoff is dead," is all she could say. "I am so sorry."At his funeral, it was not just a funeral with military honors and the pomp and circumstance. So many people shared their own stories about how Geoff had changed their lives. How he would tell jokes that would make your sides hurt from laughing. How he would break out into song while on the hikes through the Afghan mountains. How he'd take care of his fellow soldiers by sharing candy or his water. My three children will never know their Uncle Geoff this side of heaven, but my wife and I make sure that they know the kind of man he was. He was a man of honor and courage and integrity; compassion and grit and toughness. He loved God first, then family and finally country. And it was with that love he paid the ultimate sacrifice with his life.Geoff will always be my first best friend. And he will forever be my hero.-MN1(SW) Steven Whitsitt, USN Gold Star Brother

Cameron came into this world in what we learned was "Cam fashion", grand entrance! Cameron rode in Aeromed within hours of making his entrance into this world, he was strong-willed from his first breath.  Cam grew up in a rural Michigan town & loved a challenge.  Throughout his school years he played the traditional sports of baseball, football and some basketball.  He enjoyed riding anything that had a motor from the age of four when he had his first go-kart.  Cam faced challenges in his life with the attitude that he could and would do or be the best at whatever he was doing.  He from such a young age had a mischievous smile that throughout his life he used to charm those around him, he was determined to live life to its fullest and have fun while doing it.  Being a part of the Navy Cameron was able to go to Washington D.C., Pensacola and landed in Lemoore, he found adventure and friends in each place.  Beyond that mischievous smile, he had a heart full of love for his family; especially his younger brother Kevin and his daughter, Grace.  When Cameron was diagnosed with cancer, he would not let that define him, he was full of grit and determination to beat it and throughout the progression of the disease he had that smile on his face while battling the disease in his body.  Cameron left a void that will forever be a part of us but he also left a lifetime of memories that will carry us through until we meet again.

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.

Dave was a loving husband and father with a heart of gold!  His love, strength, and sense of humor will live on in us forever!   

We love and miss you so much, our sweet angel!  You are forever in our hearts!  Xoxo

Nicolas D. Checque was a highly skilled and courageous Navy SEAL who dedicated his life to serving his country. Born in Pennsylvania, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and became part of the elite SEAL Team 6, demonstrating unwavering commitment, bravery, and selflessness. On December 8, 2012, during a daring rescue mission in Afghanistan to save an American doctor held hostage, Checque made the ultimate sacrifice. His actions embodied many of the SEAL ethos as he fearlessly led the charge to ensure the safety of others. Awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart, his legacy lives on through the lives he impacted and the freedoms he defended. Remembered as a humble warrior with an unbreakable spirit, Nicolas Checque’s heroism continues to inspire those who follow in his footsteps. His sacrifice reminds us of the true cost of freedom and the depth of his devotion to duty.

To know Serena is to know love. Her gregarious heart, earnest curiosity, radiant kindness, and radical resilience were just a few of the many gifts and lessons she left to her family, community, and all those she met. We remember with tenderness and gratitude the fierceness and determination of her spirit, the brightness of her laughter (which still echoes in our hearts) and the generosity and wholeness of her loving presence. The impact of her care, her smile, and her character matched the depth of her beauty, boldness and bravery. In all life’s endeavors, she was committed to giving her whole self. Serena died too soon in a training accident with her friend Lyndsay who she shared a matching tattoo with: appropriately including their legacy “Little Acts of Kindness”. She is incredibly missed by her mom, Lisa, her brother Joe and his family, her sister Teresa, and her brother Mitch.

Throughout his service with the Navy, Luke practiced the qualities of being a hospital man in his compassion, service dedication and kind demeanor.  He was born April 14, 1990 in Vietnam and died August 19, 2014 at Beaufort SC. 

Aviation Electrician Third Class Brandon Caserta was a proud US Navy sailor. Brandon was known by those who served alongside him as one of the hardest-working members of his command. He brought energy, determination, and a deep sense of responsibility to everything he did. His radiant smile could light up a room, and his kindness made others feel seen, valued, and welcome. He was a loyal friend and a devoted son who truly cared for others. Brandon had a natural way of lifting people up and leaving a lasting impression. His legacy lives on through The Brandon Act, a law created in his honor to ensure service members can confidentially seek mental health care. Because of Brandon, lives are being changed and barriers are being broken. Though his loss is deeply felt, his story continues to inspire hope.  He will always be remembered, honored, and never forgotten.

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.

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.

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.