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 Coordinator Support

Navy Gold Star Coordinators provide support to families around the world. Find a coordinator near you.

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Navy Gold Star Tributes

EOD

Curtis R. Hall

06 Apr 2007

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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AS1

Craig R. Reuter

03 Dec 2017

AS1 (AW/SW/IW) Craig Reuter was born in Iowa. He loved his small town roots but always yearned to see the world. He joined his Navy family in 2001 and started his journey. He was a 17 year veteran of the U.S. Navy. The USS John S McCain, The USS Bonhomme Richard, The USS Nimitz, and finally the USS Makkin Island became his home. Craig left behind his wife of 13 years, a nine year old son, his parents and 2 younger sister's and a younger brother. Craig loved his family, friends and his Navy, especially his AS family. He was involved in both Operation Iraqi and Enduring Freedom, as well as the tsunami efforts and many other expeditionary's. We miss him everyday in everyway.

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LT.

Jose Luis (Joey) Resendez

04 Jan 2024

Jose Luis (Joey) Resendez was born in Austin, Texas and grew up in El Paso, Texas. Joey graduated with distinction from Cathedral High School in 2014 and received an appointment to the United States Naval Academy. He graduated in 2019. At the time of his death, he was assigned to the U.S.S. Leyte Gulf (CG-55). His first ship was the U.S.S. Truxtun (DDG-103). Joey was always the life of the party, the “ride or die” and the standout in all he did. Joey lived a life of purpose and adventure. He never denied himself a challenge or an experience and that zeal for life was contagious to anyone lucky enough to be in his presence. He had an amazing sense of humor, a quick and enviable intelligence, and a gentleness and kindness rarely found. He had a beautiful and genuine smile, a huge heart, and a generous nature. RIP

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DT3

Paul Agnir

16 Jun 2003

Loving husband, father and son and now a grandfather.
(submitted by his loving wife, Mylene)

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AM1

Peyton Stankiewicz

28 Feb 2022

Peyton joined the navy out of high school in December of 2011. After boot camp at Great Lakes, he reported to VR-54 in Belle Chase, La., where for the next 4 years he was a loadmaster on a C-130. In that position he flew around the world several times, lost track of how many times he was in Hawaii and visited over 50 countries. He then changed jobs and became an airframe mechanic for the next 2 years. Peyton re-joined for 4 more years in February 2018, reporting to VFA-122 in Lemoore, Ca. to work on FA18E/F Super Hornets. While Peyton was there, he was chosen to represent VFA-122 as part of the West Coast Rhino Tactical Demonstration Team. In December of 2021 Peyton re-joined for 6 more years to get back to where he had started at VR-54 Louisiana. Sadly on 2/28/2022 he was struck by a car and killed.

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PO2

Michael Pleasants

23 May 2021

Michael Pleasants was born in the Bronx, New York and moved to Teaneck, New Jersey. He excelled academically receiving an academic scholarship to Hampton University. In 2015 Michael enlisted in the United States Navy, continuing his family legacy of military service. He achieved the rank of Petty Officer Second Class, assigned as a Yeoman 2. He was twice selected as Navy Sailor of the Quarter and distinguished as Navy Sailor of the Year. He was decorated with many medals and commendations. During Michael’s military service he earned two college degrees. He graduated with an Associate of Science degree from Bergen Community College and in 2021 he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from Pennsylvania State University. Michael was involved in entrepreneurial endeavors, creating variants of a software application that was designed to bring people together. He also had passions that included an in depth understanding of business and finance.

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Navy Gold Star Testimonials

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.'

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 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.

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

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

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.

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.

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