John L. Davey

We honor him always and especially this month as a Gold Star Casualty. He was a World War II Era casualty on August 9, 1942 on the USS Quincy (CA-39). He was a Chief Petty Officer Electrician's Mate. MIA Status and his last recorded location was Waters off Savo Island, Solomon Islands, South Pacific

COMMENDATIONS

Purple Heart

Combat Action Ribbon

World War II Victory Medal

American Campaign Medal

Navy Presidential Unit Citation

Navy Good Conduct Medal

Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal

Navy Expeditionary Medal

He leaves a long legacy behind, his only daughter, Patricia is 88, 4 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren and 7 great-great grandchildren.  

Natalie had a light you couldn’t ignore—warm, genuine, unforgettable. She made people feel seen and valued, even in fleeting moments. Her smile radiated kindness, her presence, comfort, and her strength was unmistakable. Yellow, her favorite color, fit her perfectly: bright, joyful, full of warmth. She brought sunshine to everyone around her, leaving more than memories—she leaves a legacy. She was deeply loved by her mother, Roxanne and stepfather Louis, her sisters Lillian and Naturale, her grandparents Rich and Doreen, and her uncle Richard and aunts Faith, Tanya, and Sonya, whose bond with her was unbreakable and filled with love. The laughter, love, and effortless gestures she shared will remain with us. Natalie will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Her spirit endures in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Kevin was a Gentle Giant. He earned the nickname Care Bear from his youth minister. Kevin could be the life of the party, but he knew when to step up and do his job. Kevin could be your best friend, but he could also be your worse enemy – he did not like when others were being picked on for anything out of their control.

Chief Ryan A. DeKorte was a native of Portland, Oregon. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in November 2014 and checked aboard USS JASON DUNHAM in November 2015 where he served as Electronics Technician and a Search and Rescue Swimmer. On 8 July 2018, he received the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for his extraordinary quick and decisive actions under pressure in the rapid recovery, treatment, and medical evacuation of an injured shipmate. Seeking greater challenges, Chief DeKorte was selected to Naval Special Warfare Development Group, a Chief of Naval Operations Priority ONE major command. After reporting on board on  July 1, 2020, he quickly distinguished himself as an exceptionally gifted problem solver. He dedicated himself to developing and advancing several key command initiatives towards our Nation's greatest threats. Chief DeKorte's knowledge and efforts have had a direct and lasting impact on the operational success of the greater NSW community.

Richard joined the Navy 7 DEC 2008 and served as Master at Arms in Georgia, Japan, Cuba and Virginia over his 10 year career with the Navy. He quickly rose through the ranks and was a mentor and leader to many he served with. He enjoyed cars, Star Wars and Pokémon and never stopped when he set is eyes on achieving a goal.

Survived By:

Parents: Deborah and Stephen Holman

Brothers Raymond and Russell Holman.

Because of the circumstances at Bruce’s death, the King of Syria said he needed to make peace with Israel and the doctor attending his wounds said “Mr. and Mrs. Winters, Here brother hates brother.  Brother will kill brother.  That is why we have so many laws.  But in all of Arabia, we have NEVER seen such love as surrounds your son.” (His men had jumped ship to be with him.)

His father was Stationed in England where Bruce was born.   Bruce graduated high School at age 7.  At 12 & 13 he and his brother were the youngest Sailboat Captains at the military recreation facility at Lake Chemsee, Germany as well as Sail plane pilots. He was a NAVCAD in the Navy, flying a CH36. He also did everything Tom Cruise did in “Top Gun”.

To our sweet handsome man, Juan Michael Soriano, from the day you were born , we were so in love with you, with your chubby cheeks, head full of hair and those adorable dimples, how could we be so lucky to get such a blessing from God. We watched you grow from a baby to a bright intelligent man. You were always an inspiration and such a sweet soul. We admired your motivation and determination to always be the best, whether it be playing soccer, or just being the loving father, son , and brother, you made all our hearts melt. Your smile was so contagious, and your eyes were a ray of light, now when we look into the sky, we see your ambience and strength to keep us moving. Juannie you are hero! We will always keep your legacy alive , and thank you for all of your accomplishments, and serving our country. This is not goodbye; this is till we see you again. We love you!

Joel was born in Georgia. He loved the Navy and serving his country. He was married for 25 years and has two beautiful daughters.

(lovingly submitted by his wife, Lisa McCoy)

Jayton Daniel Patterson of Sedley, Va. was born on August 9, 1978. He was the firstborn son of Frank and Sharon Patterson. Jayton shared a loving relationship with his sister Mattie and brother Hunter. He engaged in all sports during his childhood and teen years - hunting, fishing, baseball, football and basketball.  He was an active member of Millfield Baptist Church and was known as a soldier of God.

 After graduating high school from Tidewater Academy, he attended college prior to enlisting in the Marine Corps in 1999 and re-enlisted in 2003. Jayton trained in Parris Island, and then went on to serve his first 4 years as part of the White House Security Detail in Washington, D. C.  Stationed at 8^th and I Marine Barracks, he marched proudly in the Evening Parades. He was an elite Marine who had toured the Pentagon and the World Trade Center with President Bush after the September 11^th attacks. He found the love of his life, married Stephanie Bays of Wakefield on February 15, 2003 and they were blessed on October 15 with a beautiful daughter, Claire.

Jayton was transferred to Camp Lejeune in August 2003.  He deployed with the 1^st Battalion, 2^nd Marines, Bravo Company, Weapons Platoon, 24^th Marine Expeditionary Unit in July 2004 to Iraq.  Jayton was killed by an IED explosion in the Anbar Province of Iraq on January 15, 2005. He died a hero, serving his country and protecting our freedom. Semper Fi.

Chris was very excited to join the Navy, Chris was so proud to graduate from Great Lakes and so proud to wear the uniform. Chris had his first deployment to Okinawa and was very excited to go. after he tour of duty he was sent to Port Hueneme in California and was also very excited to back in the states. A tragic accident occurred while at Port Hueneme and Chris was succumbed from the injuries. Chris was a proud seaman and a fun loving kid with many friends and family. Missed every day.

Our hearts will always miss you!

Captain Reggie Parks Carpenter also known as “Regbo” to fellow aviators, bravely served in the defense of the United States for 29 years. He flew tactical missions in three jet aircraft, in four operational squadrons, and over six aircraft carrier-based deployments including one as an exchange pilot with the French Navy.

A graduate of the US Naval War College with a Masters in National Security and Strategic Studies, the personal highlight of his career was Commanding Officer of Strike Fighter Squadron EIGHTY-THREE (VFA-83), an F/A-18C Hornet squadron at NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach, VA. He also proudly served in diplomatic roles as Naval Attaché in both Paris, France and Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Captain Carpenter was a highly decorated naval aviator who earned many awards and medals during his career including the Distinguished Flying Cross and Legion of Merit.

A devoted, loving husband and father, he was also a kind, passionate man with a quick wit and a boundless zest for life. Captain Carpenter made the most of his life, fulfilled so many dreams and continues to serve as a model for his surviving wife and daughters.

CELEBRATING GREATNESS ! ! !

May 2nd 1975 ! ! !

A day to remember. On this day

* A great son was born.

*A great STAR and Hero he grew up to be.

*A great and loving husband he became

* A great and caring Father he has been

* A great brother and friend he was to all

* A great filler of baskets indeed!

* A great scientist he became

*A great Navy Commander indeed

* Most of all, A great American he was.

 He touched and impacted many lives

 We thank the Almighty God for sending us such a blessing 

 He has left a vacuum no human can fill

 He is greatly missed by all who knew him. Our hearts bleed. But....

* Now RESTING with JESUS till we meet to part no more!! !

 ADIEU !!!

Ayana was a sailor and full-time student at North Carolina Central University. Ayana was born and raised in San Diego, CA and lived life to the fullest in her 24 years that we had the pleasure of spending with her. Ayana’s infectious smile and laughter would light up any environment that she was in.  Ayana is truly missed not only by her parents but her younger brother, older sister and a host of family and friends.
AMP FOREVER 24

Kris was born in Georgetown, Guyana and was the oldest of three children. Known to family and friends as Romeo, he graduated from Thomas Stone High School in 1995, and enlisted in the Navy on September 1, 1995. In May 2001 he was stationed at the Pentagon at the CNO Telecommunications Center where he quickly qualified in three watch stations and was well on his way to success. On September 11, 2001, IT2 Bishundat had reported for work as ordered, excited about the fact that OPNAV TCC’s Voice Communication Office had just been relocated in the newly renovated wing of the Pentagon. His zeal for education, zest for life, and love of his family and friends will forever grace the many lives that he had touched. As a testimony of his selflessness and dedication to honor, courage and commitment, the USS Shreveport has established the Information Technician Second Class (Surface Warfare) Kris Bishundat Learning Media Resource Center, housing nine computer terminals, educational materials, and a small literacy collection for over 700 Sailors and Marines onboard the ship. He is missed dearly by his father, Bhola; mother, Basmattie; and sister, Danita and Devita.  

Ben was inspired by his older brothers and thrived in the love of his family. An exceptional athlete, Benjamin excelled in wrestling, track, and cross country. He was more than just an athlete; he was a compassionate friend and an animal lover, especially fond of cats. His lighthearted nature shone through in the memes he shared, often featuring his favorite furry friends. Music was another passion of his, with Benjamin frequently sharing songs that resonated with him, creating lasting memories with his family and friends. As a Petty Officer 3rd Class in the United States Navy, Benjamin exemplified dedication and leadership. His commitment to service was recognized when he was honored as the Junior Sailor of the 3rd Quarter aboard the USS Harry S. Truman. Ben had a deep desire to help others.

The following tribute is to Ronald Lee Zempel, my brother, my hero who I should always cherish in my heart. He was born December 7, 1944, and enlisted into the USN in 1964.  I remember receiving pictures in the mail of his travels from all over the world and oh how I dreamed of one day (myself) visiting those places.  I recall anxiously awaiting the mailman to deliver those letters describing his experiences and gazing at those old black and white photos for hours.  He would send gift souvenirs that reminded me of his kindness and love characteristic of this honorable young man. But one day at the age of 12 coming home from school anticipating another letter instead I watched the uniformed Navy officials leaving the yard. My heart sank knowing something was wrong confirmed when I entered my house seeing my mother crying so much, she could hardly breathe.  I think those tears, I shall never forget as they rolled down my precious mother’s face.  “Ronnie” was gone.  

Airman PRAN E-3 Ronald Lee Zempel was most likely killed in a helicopter crash off of the decks of the USS Bon Homme Richard MIA February 27, 1967.  

Be Bold. Be Brief. Be Gone.   

A daughter. A sister. A friend. A Marine.  With a resolute spirit at an early age, Megan embodied her mantra to Be Bold.  With the decision in high school to attend the USNA (Class of 1995), Megan dedicated herself in word, work, and spirit to the goal.  

In her dedication to lifelong learning, Megan achieved a Bachelor of Science degree in General Science from the U.S. Naval Academy and completed her Masters in Criminal Justice through Boston University (awarded posthumously).  

Megan maintained a dedication to her goal of fitness and to helping others achieve their goal becoming the organizing the first Marine Corps Marathon Forward and establishing the Paul the Penguin Award, which is still given out each year during the Marine Corp Marathon to continue Megan’s efforts to celebrate others achieving their goals.

As a USMC Officer, Megan followed a professional path as a Public Affairs Officer ultimately serving as PAO for the USMC 1MEF and the Army’s 1st Brigade.  Major McClung’s awards include the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and National Defense Service Medal.

From her life we find inspiration to always Be Bold.