Jared "Bo" Valdez

Keith grew up in the Philadelphia and Cheltenham areas of Pennsylvania.  Keith was an avid Xbox gamer, he also played volleyball, ran track and cross-country. He married Sidra in 2011 and they resided in Ewa Beach, Oahu, Hawaii. Keith's Navy career began in 2009. He received the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation medal, five Navy achievement medals,  and Navy Unit Commendations. Keith was a quiet,  gentle soul who loved his family, friends also his canine family Keiko and Chichi. We thank God for the short and precious years he allowed you to be with us. We will miss Keith, but you remain in our hearts.

Lieutenant Commander Michael Alexander Rutherford, who served on both an active duty and reserve status in the US Navy was a loving father, son and friend. He passed away in his home on Wednesday, 13 April 2022 at the age of 40. Mike was born at Fort Sill Army Base, Lawton, Oklahoma on 19 November 1981. After graduating from Rex Putnam High School, Mike enlisted in the Navy on 15 January 1999 and was later commissioned as an officer on 17 June 2006. He subsequently became a Naval Aviator, flying P3s across multiple deployments and shore tours. After his flying career concluded, Mike continued to serve with distinction in intelligence and special operations roles. His most recent deployment was to Afghanistan from January thru November 2020 for RESOLUTE SUPPORT, Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan. Mike held a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Oregon State University, an MBA from the Naval Postgraduate School and a Master’s degree from the National Intelligence University. He was known for his quick wit, constant jokes, infectious smile, and his kind and compassionate spirit. Mike is survived by his son, Mason Rutherford, mother, Cherriie Rutherford; father, Michael Banda; two half-brothers, Michael and David Banda, maternal grandmother Gloria Dupuis; paternal grandparents Saul and Mary Banda, Aunts Debbie Dupuis, Ellen Rutherford

Civil Engineer Corps, USN

United States Merchant Marine Academy

26 SEP 1982 - 27 MAR 2009

It was a privilege for Frankie to serve his country. Frankie was the heartbeat of our family. We all inspire to honor him with our daily actions and words that demonstrate the integrity and courage he showed with his actions.

Survived By: Brooke Toner, Frank Toner III, Rebecca Toner and family

Wayne was born in Slidell, LA on April 17, 1983. He lived in Gainesville, Florida for all but seven years of his life.

Wayne entered into the Delayed Entry Program of the Marine Corps on October 24, 2007 and was sworn into the Marine Corps on January 22, 2008 by his father, Captain Lee Vincent, USN Retired.  He was 24.

He was a member of 2^nd Battalion, 8^th Marines, Fox Company, Weapons Platoon, also known as “America’s Battalion”.

On May 18, 2009, Wayne departed Camp Lejeune en route to Afghanistan.  He was killed in an ambush on July 25, 2009 in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. 

Jacob (Jake) had a giving heart and helping spirit. He loved our Lord, his family, friends and serving our country. We cherish every moment and were blessed to have him in our lives. Forever in our hearts. Semper Fortis.

Navy Ensign John R. Elliott, a graduate of the United States Naval Academy Class of 2000 (born November 17, 1977, died July 22, 2000) was killed in a head-on collision with a drunken driver while driving home from Annapolis, MD to Egg Harbor Township, N.J. for his mother’s birthday celebration.  The son of Bill and Muriel Elliott, Ensign Elliott, was preparing to enter Naval Flight School in Pensacola, Fla. that fall.

In his memory, John’s Law in NJ requires police to impound the cars of drunken drivers for 12 hours. The John R. Elliott HERO Campaign www.herocampaign.org promotes the use of designated drivers nationwide in partnership with schools, colleges, bar and tavern owners, police and NFL and MLB teams. The Capstone Character and Leadership Seminars are also offered at the Naval Academy in memory of Ensign Elliott. He was laid to rest with military honors at the Naval Academy Cemetery.

We called him Joey, just a young man from Akron, Ohio. A kid that was a Boy Scout and loved playing in the High School Marching Band at Akron Manchester High School, Joey has 2 brothers and 3 sisters. The oldest is Dan Ashley Jr., he played football in High School and the youngest brother is Benjamin Ashley. We were real proud of Joseph going into the service for his education and he loved what he was doing and always wanted to hear about his brother that was going into the Army, Benjamin. As a parent I was happy just to hear his voice every time he called home, Joey was just a small town country boy that loved his family and friends, and loved his God and Country.  

This is my brother Donny. We lost him unexpectedly on August 14, 2020. Donny loved to have fun and was always ready to go wherever life took him. He was stationed in Norfolk, aboard the USS George H.W Bush. He loved being on the flight deck and always said there was no feeling quite like it. Our family misses him dearly, but we are so proud of Sailor he became. ABH3 HART

Cameron was born in Natchitoches, LA and graduated from North-western State University. He was a Naval Flight Officer. He loved his time in the Navy, 3 cruises and made lots of wonderful friends.

Survived By: Parents: Evan & Margaret Hall, Catie Hall, Michael Hall

Eric was KIA on his third tour of Afghanistan with the 1/8 Marines. Someone called for help: he went; he triggered an IED and took the full brunt of it. Eric's Marines come in every year on Memorial weekend to celebrate his beautiful life with his family and hometown friends. In this picture, if you look closely, you can see a butterfly landed on his hand. This picture sums him up perfectly, tough and ready for action yet, a heart of gold and a smile to light the world. Eric was considered a Marine by his battalion because he fought right beside them. He was completely dedicated to healing their wounds as well as their minds. He made the best of all situations and made life for his Marines, his family and his friends better. He is loved, missed, honored and remembered every day.

Mark Brandon Emery, was born on October 8, 1980 in Napa, Idaho. After graduating from Napa High School in '98, Mark enlisted in the United States Navy. Mark was stationed at Port Hueneme when he met his wife, Christy. Mark and Christy were married February 15, 2003. On October 9, 2004, Mark and Christy welcomed their first child, Deavion Emery. On November 16, 2005 Mark and Christy welcomed their second child, Sage Emery. Mark was a dedicated Navy Seabee for 21 years. Mark loved being a Navy Seabee and he encompassed everything the Navy stands for in every single decision he made. Mark was approachable, but also a force of reckoning when the situation called for it. Mark was a family man. He loved spending time with his wife and children. Mark was a supportive father and he did everything from football practice to listening to music with his children. Christy and Mark were married for 18 years and enjoyed volunteering, attending concerts and cuddling while watching their favorite shows. Mark was a Hero. He always fought for what was right and did so day after day until he passed. Mark has touched so many lives and we are all thankful for the time we had with our American Hero. May we never forget his love for us and our nation. We love and miss you Daddy and will be graciously awaiting our "I'm already there!"

Our Son John P. Fritz served on board the USGN Florida 728 and was in charge of the Nuclear Propulsion System. The Motto of the USGN Florida is "Fortis Fortuna Aduivat" or "Fortune Favors the Brave." He was Brave, Adventurous, and the Smartest man we have ever known. He had a thirst for adventure, he walked the Appalachian Trail alone. He went on a personal "Walkabout" in Queensland, Australia, hiking and exploring the Country and Camping outside and staying in Hostels. He was fearless. Above all things He Loved his God, his Family and his Country. He served them all with every ounce of his being. He deployed numerous times. He transferred to the NNPTC in South Carolina after serving on the USGN Florida and became a respected, and innovative instructor. He is survived by his Mother, Father, two brothers and four sisters and daughter Madeline. His infectious laugh, boundless curiosity, and thirst for adventure will never be forgotten by those who loved admired, and cherished him. we remember that as long as we say his name he will always be with us. "Fair Winds and Following Seas, Rest Your Oar Sailor, we have the watch. We Love You John  Paul!

William was born to be in the military, says his mother, Lisa who said her son was funny, smart, athletic and a "protector" to a fault. At the age of five, William declared that one day he would grow up to be a Navy SEAL. Though he was mentally and physically prepared, it was during his Navy physical he learned he was color blind, and his dream of becoming a SEAL was dashed. He then chose to become a Corpsman, graduating first in his class. After two years at Balboa Hospital and a transfer to Camp Le Jeune, his desire to get in the battlefield with 1st battalion 2nd Marines Weapons Company was realized. He came home from Afghanistan a hero in 2011. Devoted to his brothers, he chose to extend his five year commitment attaching to a scout sniper platoon. His life was cut short in an accident on the day he completed his training. William loved his family, friends and his country. "He was a bright light in our lives," said Lisa. "He has been gone nine years and it still feels like yesterday. I am proud and grateful to call him our son."

Gary Leo Rehm, Jr. was born in Elyria, OH, and graduated from Oberlin High School. While in high school, Gary obtained his HVAC certification. He was a hard worker and began working at a very young age, said his mother. He was a Boy Scout and was very close to making Eagle Scout before his troop disbanded and he was unable to fulfill requirements. He joined the Navy in July 1998 and was stationed at various locations along the East Coast before his final assignment aboard the USS Fitzgerald. He was a Fireman Controlman and was loved and respected by his peers and his leaders. He was physically active and was considered the life of any party. “He was a wonderful son and we miss him so very much,” said his mother. Gary was posthumously promoted to the rank of Chief Petty Officer and he is remembered by his wife Erin, his mother and father, Anita and Gary, and his sister Jessica.

Our son, Raymond (Joe) Luckett III enlisted in the Navy when he was 25. After boot camp, Joe trained to serve as a Seabee. He was proud to serve as a Seabee and traveled the world, serving in Afghanistan, Japan, Sicily, Bahrain and Somalia. He also spent a short amount of time serving in Romania. Joe was well respected wherever he served because he always went above and beyond what was asked of him. Joe was getting ready to leave the States to deploy to Guam at the time of his death. He was proud to be a Seabee. He was especially proud to serve in the greatest Navy in the world. His family, fellow sailors, and friends miss him greatly.

Michael Vecchio was born in Brick, NJ, and graduated from Brick High School. Growing up, “an energetic ball of curiosity,” said his dad, Michael. “He loved action sports such as snowboarding, surfing, golf, mountain biking, skating, and spear fishing – just to name a few.” He had a love of music and played harmonica and the ukulele and was a cunning chess player. Michael had an ability to see those in need and help them with absolute selflessness. “He would choose to do the right thing which was not always the easiest thing,” said his mother, Carol. Michael joined the Navy in 2016 and began training to become an Air Acoustics Systems Operator. He was scheduled to be part of the tactical sub hunting group, Patrol Squadron 30. “Michael did not have the opportunity to serve as he would have wished but his indelible soul will surely be transmitted into all whose lives he had touched and continue in his spirit of those who served alongside him,” said Michael. He is remembered by his mother and father, Carol and Michael, and his older brother, Vincent.

Josh was stationed in Norfolk, VA., and served five years aboard the USS Jason Dunham. Josh is missed by so many every single day. He loved his family and friends, and those are the ones left behind to remember the wonderful times shared with him, but also carry an emptiness in our hearts. We know that this is our temporary home, and one day we will be together again. Love and miss you - forever in our hearts.

On Easter Sunday, April 19th, 1987 at 3:06 am our darling Jacob was born.December 31st, 2010 was the last time I saw my son, Jacob. I’ll forever cherish the memory of him sledding down a friend’s driveway to usher in that new year. In his typical fashion, he added an extra kick to our fun day with his hilarious sense of humor. It was February 7th, 2011 at around 6:30 pm when THE knock on my door happened. My world collapsed when two uniformed Navy Commanders were standing at my door.... and their words "Ma’am, are you Audrey, .....on behalf of the United States Navy.....we regret to inform you........"Growing up, Jacob had an adventurous, daring, yet gentle spirit. He loved the Boy Scouts, Royal Rangers, BMX biking, snowboarding, and especially scuba diving. Each activity played a valuable part in preparing him for the success he showed in the Navy. Our hero, Jacob Keith Bare, joined the Navy after high school. He followed a family line of military warriors. His maternal great grandfather served in the German Army and is buried at Champigny-St. -André; Futelaye, France. His maternal grandfather is retired United States Army and served in the Korean war and did two tours in Vietnam. Jacob's maternal uncle served in the US Navy and Jacob's father was in the US Air Force. This spirit of selfless, honorable, and courageous service was carried out in our family and in Jacob. He valued absolute respect and duty to his Country. Jacob never wanted any accolades for any outstanding action on his part. He always deemed it a natural result of his love for his fellow man and Country. When Jacob saved a classmate's life at Jenkins High School in 2003, when he would donate blood to the Blood Bank, or when he earned the Meritorious Service Medal in 2010, we would hear of it from other people, instead of from him. In fact, we didn't even learn that he served in the Persian Gulf and in Iraq until it was engraved on his tombstone. When I would ask him about long deployments, his favorite quote would be, "Loose lips sink ships." Jacob spent time on the USS Shoup DDG-86 in 2006, graduated from Navy Dive School in Panama City, Florida in 2008, and completed the Airborne course in Fort Benning, GA in 2010 at the top 5 in his group. His duty station was in Pearl City, Hawaii with the Seal Delivery Vehicle Team One (SDVT-1). He earned many awards and accolades. His Commanding Officer, at the time of his death, said that he did his job well.I know that he has left an everlasting impression and presence in our lives and the many lives he touched with his loyalty, bravery, generosity, humor, and dedication. We are so very blessed to have had the miraculous gift that Jacob was in our lives and we are anchored in the hope to see him for eternity. -Written by Audrey Reese, Gold Star Mother

Joseph Anthony Reese II, Fire Controlmen II Petty Officer Officer 2nd Class was born July 6, 1996 and died September 19, 2020. Joseph served in the United States Navy. He loved life and he leaves his parents, Robert and Valerie Byas and 5 siblings, James Talley III, Janelle Talley,  Janee' Talley,  Christopher Talley and Christian Talley behind to cherish his memory.  Joseph brought joy to our lives and he will forever be missed.

 

Osiel was such an amazing person. He wanted to provide a better life for his family. He did his very best to not be tempted by the streets he grew up in. He was a basketball player for Compton high, he was an Explorer for the city of Compton. He was a wonderful father to his son and was so excited to be expecting a little girl. You are trully missed. We love you so much.

Matt was a soft spoken man who cared deeply for his family.  He loved hunting. One of his best friends in the Navy said what he remembered about Matt was his infectious laugh.  We were so proud of Matt’s achievement's and just knew he had a great future ahead of him.  Matt had a fierce pride in his service with the Navy.  Although we lost him too soon, along with the deep pain of his loss, we have a great pride in the man he had become through his family and his service.  

 

Timothy Matthew McGowan (IW/SW) enlisted in the Navy in 2012, and at the time of his death (2025) he was a Senior Chief for Cryptologic Technician Collection (CTRCS). He was awarded during his service three Navy Achievement Medals and one Joint Service Commendation Medal. He served on two deployments, with the first for the Global War on Terrorism, and on the second he earned a Realm of the Arctic certificate. Tim served on the USS Arleigh Burke and USS Oscar Austin, and worked at CWG-67 on multiple tours including as command career counselor. His last service medal earned was the Defense Meritorious Service Medal. 

Hayden is a beloved son, brother, and friend to more than can be counted. He proudly served two extensive deployments on the USS Abraham Lincoln protecting our country. He has been known throughout his life in and outside of service as one of the kindest, most thoughtful, and authentic human beings. He is exceptionally proud of his love for his family, commitment to the Navy and his placement on Seal Team Ten. While he is intensely missed on this earth, he will be carried in our hearts forever. 

Jason D Jablonski, (‘JJ’), Orchard Park, NY, had the innate ability to be both encouraging and commanding as a leader. At a young age, he recognized that with hard work and dedicated effort, he could accomplish whatever goals he set for himself excelling in high school and at the United States Naval Academy accumulating multiple athletic and academic awards leading his athletic teams being voted captain of every team he played on. A a true leader who always put the team above self, in August 2016, just prior to his Senior year at USNA, JJ was diagnosed with Leukemia. In mid-November he learned he had been granted his first-choice service assignment to be commissioned as a Naval Aviation Officer upon the 2017 graduation. However, on November 27, 2016, due to complications related to his leukemia treatment, Jason passed away peacefully at the age of 21 surrounded by family and friends after being ‘pinned’ with Navy Pilot wings. He left behind his loving parents, Joe and Lori, two older sisters, Janelle and Casey, a dedicated girlfriend, teammates, company-mates, and an incredible number of friends.  In his Advanced Directives, he indicated the desire to address the unique needs of AYAs who are diagnosed with cancer, a Fellowship has been launched to fulfill his wishes.

John A Deltoro, a wonderful son, brother, husband, and father. He lit up any room he entered with his smile and sense of humor. His laugh was infectious. He loved his children with his whole heart. They were his world and he made sure they, and his wife Heather, never went without. John and his sister Sarah had an unbreakable bond. He and his brother in law Philip were more like brothers than in laws. John and his brother James enjoyed spending time together. John always checked in on his mom and stepdad Carl, his dad and stepmom Kathy(although in our family, "step" wasn't a word), and other family members. He loved football and was a die hard Georgia Bulldawgs fan. He enjoyed woodworking and was an avid gamer. John was proud to be a member of the United States Navy and felt honored to serve his country. He is loved and missed by all he touched.

CE1 (Construction Electrician) Tito L. Ruiz was born in the Philippines on April 2, 1974.  He graduated from Radford High School in 1993 and joined the Navy in January 19, 1999. 

His duty stations includes U.S. Naval Support Unit, State Department, NSA/NIOC Hawaii, NCTS FE Yokosuka, NMCB1 Gulfport Mississippi, and NCTS FE Det Sasebo where he served as the Base Communication Assistant Manager. 

CE1 Tito Ruiz is survived by his wife, Melody Ruiz and they have 3 children ( Fiona, Ysabella and Tj)

Oscar was an amazing husband, a devoted father, a loving son, and a comical brother. He wore is heart on his sleeve and he immensely loved his family. He was dedicated to his job as a Master at Arms in the Navy and always did his job with integrity and dignity. He was always making people laugh and smile anywhere he went, and he loved and enjoyed life to the fullest.

From an early age it was clear that Will was destined to serve in the military.  He was simply built to protect. He was a highly intelligent young man who had a photographic memory.  He joined the Navy in January 2014.  He scored a 98 on the ASVAB and was offered anything he wanted.  He chose sonar and was the honor grad in A School.  He served his entire career aboard the USS Chafee, DDG 90.  He was well trained in martial arts and was also on the Anti-Terrorist Team. In his final deployment in 2017 there was a total casualty of the Array. It was unspooling and about to be lost at sea. He devised a way to reverse and repair the issue and was able to retrieve the invaluable equipment, put it back in service and affording the ship the ability to return to Pearl Harbor solo without delay. Today, every ship in the Navy has a manual with this procedure under his name.  The Navy named the Winch Room that houses the Array aboard the Chafee in Will's honor. 

He left behind his wife Whitney and newborn son Connor, who was only 6 weeks old at his passing, as well as a family who misses him each and every day. He made a difference in the lives of everyone he touched.  He further left a legacy of honor, dedication, valor and military bearing for his time served in the US Navy.