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Tyon Hickerson

Branch: United States Navy
Date of Birth: 01 Jun 2005
Deceased: 15 Jul 2024

Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, he was an energetic, happy, and loving son, brother, nephew, grandson, and friend. Known for his loud voice and big smile that could light up any room, Tyon touched many lives with his caring nature, love and joy. From age six, Tyon loved playing basketball, the color red, and running track. After graduating from Pickerington North High School, he fulfilled a long-held dream and joined the US Navy. Tyon reported to Great Lakes for boot camp in July 2023, quickly becoming a leader in his barracks. His shipmates admired him for his hard work and dedication. He was so excited about his future, including plans to start school and continue his leadership journey in the Navy. He was always eager to help others and had a generous spirit. Our beloved son gained his wings at age 19 from a brain aneurysm; today, his legacy lives on through the many accomplishments he achieved in such a short time.

Navy Gold Star Tributes


U.S. Navy
AOAA
Vian Irving II
01 Jan 2016
Vian was born on September 8, 1994 in Paterson, New Jersey. He was full of life and the family comedian. He moved to Virginia with his mother in August 1995 and eventually graduated in 2012 from Churchland High Schools in Portsmouth, VA where he was a member of the football team, track & field team and played the tuba in the school orchestra. After completing a year at Virginia State University, he decided to enlisted into the United States Navy in January 2014 and went to boot camp that July. He began his brief military career as an Aviation Ordnanceman. He was stationed in san Diego, CA aboard the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). When he wasn’t on duty, he was either playing basketball, working out, or hanging out with his shipmates who became his brothers. He tragically lost his life in an automobile accident on January 1, 2016 on his way back to the ship for duty. Not a day goes by that I don’t think about Vian. Lovingly submitted by his mother.
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U.S. Army
SSG
Sabrina Martinez
27 Aug 2016

Sabrina, my beautiful blued-eyed angel.  

You greeted this world wide awake at 6:00 a.m. on the dot.  You used to love to read before you could “actually” read.  You loved to sing, dance and you were quite the little actress. Snowboarding, fishing, camping and most outdoor sports were among your many interests.  You rarely turned down an opportunity to volunteer, complete a puzzle, play a board game or accept a challenge to a game of spades. You had a passion for photography as well as crafting and crocheting.  You were a runner and completed the Seattle “Rock N Roll” half-marathon. 

You never accepted anything less than an “A” grade on your assignments, received your Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice and were on your way to achieving your Master’s in Forensic Psychology.

I grew to realize that you had found your niche in the Army; receiving several awards, decorations and medals, most notably, the Eighth Army Soldier of the Year Award and the Meritorious Service Medal.

You never missed an opportunity to make someone else smile.

You loved your country, the Army, the JAG, your soldiers, animals (stuffed or otherwise), your friends, your family and especially your daughter.

I have always been so proud of you and feel incredibility blessed to be your Momma.  You were the most amazing daughter and a beautiful soul!

I thank God for every minute I had with you.  As long as I live, I will search for moments of you in my memories. 

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U.S. Navy
SR
ShaCool KnoRu Bell
13 Feb 2021

To ShaCool,

There hasn’t been a day we haven’t said your name or missed your smile. Every day is a constant reminder of how precious and short life can be there is an emptiness that can’t be filled since you’ve been gone but we will work every day to make you proud as you did all of us! Fair Winds and Following Seas Seaman Bell! We Love you.

Written in love by his mother,

Stephanie Clavon

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U.S. Navy
CWO3
Charla Thomason
24 Apr 2024

Charla was born 11/17/1981 and left this world on 4/24/2024. Charla was an exceptional and loving mother, daughter, sister, aunt, granddaughter, niece, and friend. Charla always made you feel special. She was so funny and could keep you laughing you could never be sad when she was around. Charla was an awesome cook and could build anything she set her mind on. Everything Charla determined in her mind to do, she done it with great pride and excellency. Charla started her Navy career as an E3 and worked her way up to a CWO3 in her twenty-three years of service to the US Navy. Charla wore her uniform with pride and dignity. Charla always went above and beyond whatever her task may have been. We miss our girl deeply; words cannot even express the loss of this wonderful soul. Until we meet again our precious daughter, we will always remember the wonderful and special person that you were. You would always say" I try so hard " . You were a giver,  and you gave all you had. 

Loving and remembering you always,

Mama Daddy, Dylan and Family

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U.S. Navy
MAC
Jason L. Andrews
23 Aug 2016

Jason was born on June 9th 1986 and brought nothing but joy to our lives from the moment he entered this world.  Jason was a constant thread of love as a son, brother, husband and father who viewed life through a lens of optimism.  Jason had a contagious smile and unwavering determination, he pursued his passions and inspired all of us with his unique spirit.  

In his journey through life, he exhibited a resilience that was nothing short of remarkable, facing his challenges, he stood tall, facing them with courage and grace.  With determination and perseverance, Jason pursued his dreams, carving out a path of success that was built  on hard work, dedication and belief in his abilities.

Jason’s legacy will live on leaving footprints of love and kindness wherever he went.  My beloved son, your journey on this earth was a beautiful symphony of love, joy and inspiration.  You will forever be in our hearts.  Love from Mom and Lisa.

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U.S. Army
SSG
Irving Griffith
04 May 2009

We are proud of your service to our Nation. I love and miss you with all my heart-Odessa.

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U.S. Navy
LCDR
Richard Thomas Allen
09 Aug 2010

Rich wanted to join the Navy from the time he was a little boy according to his parents, Jesse & Sue Allen. Rich was the only child to Jesse and Sue Allen, and he loved them more than life itself.

He joined the Sea Cadets www.seacadets.org when he was 11 years old until he was 18 years old and then enlisted in the Navy immediately after Highschool, and went into the  LDO program 10 years later. He was on Submarines for most of his career. He was the epitome of and outstanding enlisted Sailor 10 years as well as Officer for 11 years when he unexpectedly passed away on 08/09/10.

There is so much I can tell you about him, He was a Godly man and he loved his family with all his heart and soul, but when it came to the Navy, there was a gleem in his eye that no one could take away. I have never seen anyone love their career as much as he did his, and I have grown up my whole life connected to the military, as my father was in the Navy for 33 years. To this day, no one can compare.

Rich and I have 4 children together. Our daughter Emily, is married to Captain John Henderson. Our oldest son STS2 Dean Allen, he is married to Carrie and they have our 1st Granddaughter Zoey, Our middle son Garrett, he is married to Ana, and they have our 2nd Granddaughter Eliana , and our youngest son AC3 Dayton Allen followed his father's footsteps and joined the Navy as well.

Rich was able to swear our 2 oldest son’s into the Military, but passed away before he could our youngest, so our son in law swore Dayton into the Navy.

Forever in our Hearts <3

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U.S. Navy
AC3
Jacob Alan Greer
31 Jul 2021

Jacob was born in Jackson, Mississippi and grew up in Highland Heights, KY where he graduated high school in 2017. He was very proud to join the Navy in February of 2019 and was stationed on the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN75) in Norfolk, VA after graduating from A school in Pensacola, FL as an Air Traffic Controller (AC). With the Truman, he completed one deployment to the Mediterranean and Arabian Seas. He was a kind and generous person who saw himself as the protector of those around him and was the first one to step up if someone needed help. He is terribly missed by family and friends every day.

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U.S. Navy
SKC
Delmer Wallen
15 Aug 2011
My late husband Delmer Wallen (an E-7) proudly served God and country in the US Navy. When he first joined, he was mostly stationed over in Japan. This was from 1982-1986. Neither of us knew each other then. After we started dating, he was serving in the Navy Reserves. In 2000 Delmer got called back to active duty. he worked at the Washington Navy Yard and Great Lakes near Chicago. In 2004 he was over in Djibouti, Africa. After we married in 2005, he was stationed in Norfolk. In 2008 he was over in Kuwait. Some of my favorite memories with him were the Military Appreciation Days at Busch Gardens, Kings Dominion, the Norfolk Zoo, and Williamsburg. Baseball game, ice hockey game, and spending day at waterpark were also fun. These were also Military Appreciation Day events. I also enjoyed the Friends and Family Day cruise and the other times that I was on the ships. After living in Norfolk, we moved to West Virginia in 2010. We attended a few dining out events there and also in Norfolk. While there Delmer served as a Navy recruiter until God called him home. I was very blessed to be married to him.
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U.S. Navy
MCPO
David M. Kelley
19 Apr 2001

David enlisted in November of 1970 at the age of 18 years old during the Vietnam war.  He served 30 years in the U.S. Navy, some of his proudest accomplishments during his career were serving as Command Master Chief, being named NROTC Recruiter of the Year along with serving aboard various Navy vessels.  He died April 19, 2001 while assigned to shore duty, NRD Kansas City. He was proud to serve his country and was honored at the opportunity to protect it.

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U.S. Army
SGT
Colby Doran
08 Oct 2020

Colby was a dedicated Soldier, a loving son, and brother. He will forever be remembered as 22. Taken from us too soon. We must fight like Colby. Cancer Sucks!!

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U.S. Navy
CTT2
Jamaica George
07 Feb 2018
My son Jamaica George was April 8th 1996 in Clarksville TN. He went to Kenwood elementary, middle and high school where he graduated in 2014. He was a quiet person but very caring and also funny. He was so helpful and kind. Always wanted to see others happy. He loves reggae music in which  Bob Marley is one his favorite artist.  Jamaica is the youngest of 3 boys. RIP my son love and miss you.
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U.S. Navy
PO2
Robert Miner
03 Jan 2013
Robert "Robby" Miner III was born in New Hyde Park, NY in 1987 where graduated from New Hyde Park Memorial High School and was a volunteer fire fighter. He joined the Navy in 2006, where he proudly served as a Master-at-Arms. Robby always wanted to be a police officer and held various positions that allowed him to excel within his job. Robby grew up with his dog, Biddy, along with his parents and brother. According to his father, Robby loved to figure out how things worked and make repairs as needed. Robby had planned to become a Mustang (Enlisted to Officer rank), as he was very patriotic and a natural leader. He enjoyed outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and geocaching with his wife and two sons. He is remembered by his wife Deanna, their sons, Triston and Gavin, his parents, Rob and Laurie, and his brother, Max.
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U.S. Navy
MDSN 1ST CLASS
Austin Zalik
03 Aug 2012

MDSN 1st class 2013 USNA Remembering and honoring my son whose light inspired everyone he came to know. Always and forever loved.

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U.S. Navy
ET1
Nathaniel J. Williams
13 Feb 2014

Nathaniel, loss of a son, brother, and friend that God must have needed more.  He was a terrific friend, husband, sailor, uncle, brother and son.  Nathaniel was a giver by nature and loved helping others. He loved his family, cherished his friends and was an extremely talented artist with various mediums, paper, pencil, wood, etc…  Those who knew him, knew how much he wanted to be a father, and even though he never got to be one, I’m sure he is playing guardian angel to the children that were in his life.  Of course, smiling, he was always smiling even on his bad days, he smiled.  Thou his body is gone, I have no doubts he is happy and working hard to help others, all while smiling next to our Father’s side in heaven. Nathaniel was always a hard worker, proud of the Navy, through and through. Though White House Communication Agency is normally a peak in any airman, soldier, sailor or coast-guard’s career, he wanted to go to JCU, Joint Communications Unit. So, he worked hard to get accepted into JCU. He endured surgery to go to jump school and was so thrilled when he was accepted.  He survived Afghanistan and thou tragic, he died doing what he does best…helping another in need. Rest in peace dear son, rest in peace until we meet again. Love, Dad and Mom.

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U.S. Navy
LTJG
Asante K. McCalla
19 Aug 2018

Lt.J.G. Asante McCalla was a proud Morehouse College graduate, Naval officer, and devoted son. A brilliant young leader with a quiet strength and a heart for justice, he worked to elevate the NROTC program at Morehouse College and inspired his peers with unwavering determination and kindness. Asante served with distinction aboard the USS Lake Erie. Though we still await answers about his mysterious disappearance at sea, we hold fast to the legacy of the young man who loved deeply, led with integrity, and lived to uplift others. His impact continues through the stories we tell, the lives he touched, and the honor he brought to our family and community. We are forever proud of our son—our hero.

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U.S. Navy
CM1
Stephen M. Kuhry
24 Jun 2017

CM1 Stephen M Kuhry was born on 5/7/88 and was my oldest son.  He was very smart and never dull. He passed on 6/24/2017, three weeks before his youngest son was born. He was loved by many and made me a very proud momma and a proud grandma.  I will love him forever.

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U.S. Navy
PO3
Marques Nettles
02 Apr 2006
Marcques enjoyed his life like no other!!!His Wife, family & friends have him in their hearts forever. He enjoyed fine dining, golf, backgamon, fishing, shopping, Nike, Reptiles, Snowboarding, Racquetball, darts, football, basketball & more. We still miss & love Him soooo much. He is a born again Christian so is with Jesus now. 
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U.S. Navy
LT
Michael McGreevy Jr.
28 Jun 2005
Michael “Mike” McGreevy, Jr. was one of eight Navy Seals in the group of 16 service members killed June 28, 2005, when their MH-47 Chinook helicopter was shot down in the mountains of Afghanistan. Born in Milwaukee, WI, Mike grew up in Portville, NY, where he excelled in athletics and taught himself how to speak German. He graduated first in his class at the Naval Academy in 1997. “He pushed himself very hard and accomplished so much in his short life, but he was best known for being a very personable and humble guy who was always looking out for others,” said his mother, Patricia. Recalling a fond memory, she tells of a trip she took with Mike Jr. to Block Island with Michael Sr. and their Jack Russell Terrier, Loki, one January. “It was freezing and everything was locked so we walked the whole island to stay warm. Mike frequently put Loki inside his pea coat because the poor dog had short hair,” said Michael Sr. “What could have been a miserable cold day turned out to be, like so many things with Mike, an adventure, the memory of which I still cherish. Miss him every day. He was a gift.” Mike is remembered by his wife, Laura, his daughter, Molly, and his mother and father, Patricia and Michael.
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U.S. Navy
MA3
Kyle Duffy
12 Aug 2024

Master at Arms Petty Officer 3rd Class Duffy was born on March 30, 2001 to Lori and Andrew Duffy of Wareham Massachusetts. Kyle was the youngest of five and the brother to Amy, Juanita, Merissa and Zachary. Kyle was stationed at Naval Base Guam and died unexpectedly while on duty on August 12, 2024. Kyle was the person when you talked about great people who cared about others and would listen to everyone's life story and show he really cared for others. He loved fishing and literally has a fishing rod store at home in Wareham. Our family is truly heartbroken and we will never forget his kind heart. He is buried at the National Cemetery in Bourne, Massachusetts a very peaceful place. WE LOVE YOU  KYLE

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U.S. Navy
PO2
Jaxon Clark
20 Sep 2023

Jaxon was/is larger than life. From the time he was born until the day he was born into eternal life he was full of energy, enthusiasm, compassion, humor, and a lot of love. He was a friend to all who knew him. Jaxon was incredibly intelligent. Scoring a 98 on his ASVAB! He was a mama's boy at heart and sure knew how to have a good time. One of his favorite things to do was spend time with "his buds" or his family. He is deeply missed and the world will never be the same for many of us that love him.

 

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U.S. Navy
Lt.
Walter Gray Womble III
01 May 1989

USS Barbel SS-580

Lost at Sea. Eternal Patrol 5-1-1989

 

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U.S. Navy
LCDR
Kenneth Buell (MIA)
17 Sep 1972

LCDR Kenneth Buell was born in Louisville, Ky., on Aug. 24, 1939, as the only child of Louis and Libby Buell of Xenia, Ohio. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and married Mary in June 1963.

While assigned to VA-35 at NAS Oceana, Va., he deployed to Vietnam in the summer of 1972 embarked on the USS AMERICA (CVA 66). On Sept. 17, 1972, CDR Verne G. Donnelly, pilot and Skipper of VA-35, and Kenneth launched from USS AMERICA (CVA 66) on a combat mission over the vicinity of Hai Duong, North Vietnam. As their aircraft was about 8 miles west of the city, heavy AAA fire followed by a large fireball were reported along their flight path and it was assumed that they were shot down and both declared Missing in Action. He remains listed as MIA after 42 years.

Mary never remarried and resides in Gig Harbor, Wash., along with Susan, their daughter, who has two children Aidan and Trinity. Their son, Richard, has served in the Navy for 23 years as a Supply Corps Officer. He is assigned to NAVAIR in Patuxent River, Md., working as a Business Financial Manager for the Air ASW Systems Program Office (PMA-264). He and his wife, Kimberly, of Powhatan Point, Ohio, have two children Alexis and Evan.

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U.S. Navy
PO2
Danielle Elise Lopez
27 Mar 2020

Danielle was a beautiful, compassionate, cynical, intelligent and an inspiring young woman - she was one of a kind. Danielle was always eager to put herself and everything around her to the test. 

Danielle loved to sketch, journal, debate, and she also enjoyed writing short science fiction stories. She was a voracious reader and a lover of different genres of music and movies.  Danielle sketched a “Tree of Life”, with rainbow roots which later became her first tattoo. It was incredibly special to her since it represented her coming out to the world as a bisexual woman.

Danielle had an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a passion for mentoring others.  She loved to travel, and she embraced all cultures. She enjoyed sharing these new experiences with others.   

Danielle was always looking out for the underdog.  She had an amazing sense of compassion and patience for others. She often withheld passing judgement and was very loyal to her friends and family.  Danielle understood that words were not always necessary and just spending time together was enough.  Her smile and laughter were very contagious.  Danielle went out of her way to talk to you when you needed it most, regardless of what she was going through. She was a beacon of light to everyone around her.  

Danielle, you took a piece of us with you the day you left.  We shall forever love you and keep your memory until that day that once more, we can hold you close.

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U.S. Navy
CAPT
Thomas F. Walsh
07 Mar 2017

Tom served twenty-nine years of honorable and dedicated Active Duty and Reserve service as a U.S. Navy SEAL Officer serving on SEAL teams based on both the East Coast (Little Creek) and West Coast (Coronado). His service to our Nation includes deployments to Operation Desert Storm, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Djibouti, Fallujah, Mongolia, Yemen, the Philippines, and other regions of conflict, making a tremendous impact on all those who served with him. His medals and commendations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Joint Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy Marine-Corps Commendation medal, Navy Achievement Medal, and numerous unit and campaign awards. Tom was interred with full military honors at Section 60 of Arlington National Cemetery. Tom is greatly missed by his family, his military family, and his friends.

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U.S. Navy
PO2
Michael David Saldana Jr.
06 May 2022

Michael David Saldana Jr. was born in Corpus Christi, Texas, in 1996, and tragically passed away at the age of 26 on May 6, 2022. He served in the Navy, holding the rank of second-class petty officer. Michael shared a close bond with his brother, who was 10 years younger, and loved him deeply. He enjoyed playful moments, such as posing with bunny ears in pictures. Michael had a passion for reading books, playing video games, and taking drives along the California coast in his beloved 2-door Mercedes, a car he proudly purchased on his own. He was known for his caring, generous nature, always willing to help others and give selflessly, even offering the shirt off his back. Michael’s free-spirited personality and kind heart left a lasting impact on all who knew him, and while he is deeply missed, he will forever be cherished in their hearts.

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U.S. Navy
PO1
Vincent Lee Ingellis
20 Mar 2020

Vincent Lee Ingellis, 42, was born October 24, 1977, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and passed away peacefully at home near Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, on March 20, 2020. A proud U.S. Navy First Class Petty Officer, Vincent honorably served for 20 years, including deployments in Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. He dreamed of retiring, starting a new chapter, and one day returning to the mountains of Puerto Rico to start a farm. Though his plans were tragically cut short, those who knew him were forever touched by his love, laughter, and generosity. Vincent was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, and friend. He could often be found grilling, working on cars, lending a helping hand, or dreaming big about the future—especially for his daughter. His vibrant personality and infectious sense of humor will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who loved him.

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U.S. Navy
CTR3
John Thomas Larimer
20 Jul 2012

John Thomas Larimer was born in the early morning hours of February 16, 1985.  He grew up with his four older siblings in Crystal Lake, IL.  John graduated with honors from University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.  John became fourth-generation Navy when he enlisted and went to Great Lakes in February, 2011.  Next was CTR-A school and then stationed at Buckley AFB in Aurora, CO. 

We last saw John in early July, 2012 and he told us he was being encouraged to go to OCS and become an officer.  After John’s death, we learned that they had started a mentoring award in his name because he had been mentoring other military personnel on and off the job.   We also learned that he was doing extremely well with his assigned job.

John didn’t die because of his Navy service.  He died in a mass shooting at a movie theater on July 20, 2012

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U.S. Navy
SN
Xavier Rochon
12 May 2025

Xavier Rochon loved music, all music.  He played the Viola throughout school; he taught himself to play the piano and composed his first song in middle school. Anything to do with music he wanted to be part of.  He decided to join the Navy out of high school and served his country proudly on the Dwight D. Eisenhower as an ET; and while serving he still manage to find music. He was known for always finding the perfect “tunes” for whatever moment was happening onboard the ship at that time.  He loved and was loved by his family; his brother and sister, mom and dad; a multitude of cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents.  He loved Star Wars, Legos and Transformers, and enjoyed working with kids. He was looking into becoming a teacher after the Navy, a music teacher of course.

 

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U.S. Navy
CDR
Milton Brandon "Cletus" McCauley
11 Jan 2018
Brandon or "Cletus" was known in the P-3 and Navy community as a wonderful and caring Officer. He was a selfless and kind man. He was a P-3 NFO and Mission Commander for many years in the Navy. He also served on the USS Abraham Lincoln as a "Shooter." It was one of his favorite jobs. Brandon was always willing to go the extra mile for his enlisted sailors and was proud to serve along side everyone. He is survived by his wife and two beautiful children. He is missed but not forgotten. He lives on in our memories and we are forever grateful for his 22 years of service and sacrifice for our country.
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Navy Gold Star Testimonials