Jake was the gatekeeper of nicknames, lover of animals, and a damn good dad. Known for his funny personality, selfless heart, and cranky attitude if he didn’t get enough sleep; a true gem in the world we lost too soon.
Navy Gold Star Program Information & Resource Site
Navy Gold Star is the Navy’s official program for providing long-term support to surviving families of Sailors who pass while on Active Duty. If you are visiting this page because you are a surviving family member of a deceased service member, please accept our most heartfelt sympathy and gratitude for your loved one’s service and sacrifice in defending our nation . . .
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Navy Gold Star Tributes
Carlos was born in Clarksville, TN, and graduated from North West High School. He enlisted in the US Army in 1996 and was working on his Associates of Arts in Criminal Justice when he was KIA. Carlos was a Platoon Sergeant with the 11th Battalion and led ground-force protection on the front lines. He deployed four times during his service. He enjoyed working on his car, hosting barbecues and dinners for his fellow Soldiers, and spending time with his family as often as he could. Carlos last spoke to his son, Cameron, on his 11th birthday, while actively deployed. “Carlos was a quiet person, but when he spoke, folks would listen," said his wife, Kristen. "He was an outstanding leader, trainer, confidant and best-friend to everyone who knew him.” Carlos is remembered by his wife, Kristen, and their son, Cameron.
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Aviation Boatswain Mate Joseph Naglak, USN, of Naval Station Norfolk and formerly of West Windsor, NJ died in service to our country while working on the flight deck aboard the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) on September 17, 2018. He was 21.Born in Seoul, South Korea, Joe was adopted by Kenneth Naglak and the late Jeanne Naglak. He was a member of the 2015 graduating class at West Windsor Plainsboro High School North and also studied automotive restoration. While in high school he played football and enjoyed basketball. Joe attended Monmouth University where he studied Homeland Security. In addition to his interests in sports and cars, Joe enjoyed drawing, the culinary arts and was an active and energetic volunteer with the Special Olympics.Joe enlisted in the Navy, because "He wanted to give back to a countrywho gave him so much" his sister Stephanie Blair Naglak said in an interview with NJ Advance Media. "He was everything that I hope to be one day and he should always be remembered as a hero with a big heart." After completing his training, Joe met a young lady with whom he wanted to share his life, got engaged and was working with his fiancée, Nicole Weber of Santa Barbara CA on planning their nuptials. Joe will be greatly missed, but forever remembered as one of the most loving and compassionate persons anyone could wish to have been able to call a son, grandson, brother, nephew, fiancé, and friend.
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Our son David, lived a full and adventurous life. He accomplished more in his short life of 38 years, than most people do in a lifetime. He graduated college with an engineering degree and commissioned in the Navy Engineering Corps. Spending 5 years as an engineer, he then went back to medical school to earn his Medical Degree. After spending two years as a Flight Surgeon, he applied and was accepted to the Pathology Residency Program at Balboa Naval Hospital, San Diego, CA. It was while he was running to an early morning swim practice that he tragically lost his life. He was a 2nd year Resident. His passions were world travel, hiking National Parks, and a thirst for knowledge. One of his goals was to run a marathon in every continent. On his trip to Antarctica, he accomplished that by running 26 miles on the ship's treadmill, and then participated in the Polar Bear Plunge. We honor him by trying to "Live Like Dave" everyday.
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MY SON JOSE WAS THE MOST HONEST AND HUMBLE HUMAN BEEN I HAVE EVER MET , I FEEL NO ONE IN THE ENTIRE WORLD WOULD HAVE ANITHING BAD TO SAY ABOUT HIM , HE WAS AN AMAZING SON AND BROTHER TO HIS AUTISTIC SISTER JELLY, HE LEFT TO SOON. JOSE WAS BORN IN CAGUAS, PUERTO RICO, HE MOVED TO ORLANDO IN 2011 AND JOINED THE NAVY IN 2017.
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EOD2 Curtis R Hall had a charming smile that would easily disarm most, but hard work, dedication and perseverance were mandatory. It was these attitudes that transcended Curtis' life. As a Boy Scout he proudly wore its uniform as he worked and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout as well as the National Lifesaving Award for saving his Fathers life while on a a scouting white water trip. The courage, commitment and integrity Curtis learned as a Boy Scout made it an easy transition for him to trade his Scout Khakis for something else. Something bigger than himself; Something that he felt would make a difference to the world. He traded for the Navy Dress Blues of the United States Navy. It was his impeccable ethics, modest nature and humble demeanor that made him the sailor he was and the sailor he will always remembered for. May he and the others like him never be forgotten.
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Navy Gold Star Testimonials
KRIS ROMEO BISHUNDAT'S FAMILY
Patricia you are perfect for the job you do with the Gold Star Families. Talking to you over the phone felt like I have known you before and meeting you in person validate my feelings. After almost 14 years it means something special to meet other parents and families who have walked our path and the others who are now on that long painful journey our prayers are with all to find comfort.Gold Star Mom and Dad, Maryland
Gold Star Family
'This was a great experience for me. I am so glad I did it. I appreciate all of the work and coordination from everyone involved. Thanks for your program. It meant a lot to me and my husband. We were taken on a tour of the hanger, meet some of the men now in the squadron, and had a very nice time. Thank you very much Sandra.'
Gold Star Family
Susanna, thanks for all you do for the Gold Star Families. . .encouraging Dolores to submit a tribute for our son Rene was just another example of how you are always reaching out to care for and encourage family members to remember and celebrate the lives of their loved ones.Thank you! Bill & Dolores
Gold Star Spouse, California
As a survivor of a military serviceman, I'm so pleased for all of you in supporting and caring for those who have lost their love ones like mine. Your kindness and cooperation is being appreciated.
Judi and Pat, Gold Star Wives of America, Inc.
We were very happy to see Gold Star Navy in the Resource Room at the Snowball Express in Dallas Texas. Rufus and Stephanie provided valuable information and also helped in the event. Thank you for being there for us.
Gold Star Dad
Thanks Sabrina for your greatful assistance in obtaining gold star pins for me and my family. We do appreciate your hard work in making this possible.
Carol & Andrea
Mrs. Jackson, you're such a blessing. We don't feel forgotten after our loss anymore. We greatly appreciate the moral support you provided to us. Thank you very much for all you do. Carol & Andrea
Delrio Family
Thank you very much for everything Erick it was a pleasure to meet you in person, I hope that we are able to maintain communication with the Navy Gold Star program that represents so much satisfaction and happiness for us to unite with other families. Hugs