“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.
An open letter,
To my first born and only son, Evan Hunter Lederer, CM3, it is so hard to believe you have been gone from this earth for 7 years. Not a day goes by that I don’t think of you, you were such a bright light in this world, your goodness and compassion were evident in so many things that you did from volunteering at various local schools to mission trips in the U.S and abroad. Your capacity to show love and assist people who needed help never ceased to amaze me.
The TBI you suffered changed the course of your life and ultimately lead to you taking yours, your suicide is never easy to talk about, but I want the person reading this who may feel lost, angry, or hopeless to hear me - Your life is important and matters, people love you!
When things seem at their worst always remember that another day will come, and it can be filled with promise and good moments.
Seek the help you need, don’t be ashamed – Reach Out people care.
If there’s one last thing I can say as a mom it’s this, I would give anything to have one more incredible hug from my son –
Evan, until we meet again, All My Love – Mom