Born in Boston, MA, Gerald W. Turner, Jr, grew up in Maryland, the youngest and only brother of five.  In 2018 following Bootcamp, he was assigned to the USS Peralta, in San Diego where he displayed amazing work ethics. Recognized out of 350 sailors as Lava Dog of the Month, December 2019, cited for "outstanding performance…a motivated, positive, and promising young sailor...a bright soul in the room, first to volunteer for the toughest jobs.", his Commander wrote.  He enjoyed the camaraderie of his shipmates he fondly referred to as his “brothers” and spent many of those days being a protective and supportive big brother as he was all of 21.  Deployed in January 2020, he was later promoted to Gunner's Mate, 3rd Class, training with the Weapon's Department, responsible for operating and performing maintenance on all weapons onboard.  While "Gerry" manned the ship's helm, navigating the East China Sea, his Commander asked how deployment was going, he could’ve said anything, he impressed his Commander by simply saying, “It is fine. We’re all going to be just fine”.

Gerry, aka JJ, was a fun-loving, prankster who laughed A LOT.  He loved music, gaming, but mostly eating.  He wasn’t a complainer; he lived life.  He was supportive, encouraging, and would do anything for you without needing to be asked.  He was a strong, level-headed young man with character and conviction who lovingly helped his mother and his sisters a much as he could.  He was an amazing son, brother, uncle, and friend!