“Forever Loved, Never Forgotten”

The Navy Gold Star Program is eternally grateful for the sacrifice of those Service Members who have died in service to our country. To help us to never forget, we have set up this tribute page to honor and remember the memory of those lives. If you would like to honor the memory of your Sailor, Soldier, Marine, Airman or Coast Guardsman through the Navy Gold Star website please submit your thoughts and a photo.

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Our son Michael (EMFA -Electricians Mate Fireman Apprentice), affectionately known as Jamel was a proud member of the United States Navy. He enjoyed the camaraderie of his shipmates (onboard the USS Kitty Hawk) and worked on his qualifications with fervor. He was known as one who was eager to learn and serve His country, which prompted one of his commanding officers to remark, "That man was raised right." He was appreciated by his division, and performed his duties with talent and enthusiasm.

Jamel will best be remembered as a fun-loving, quick-witted young man who enjoyed seeing the lighter side of life. He was a leader among his peers and was looked up to by family and friends alike. He especially loved and adored his sisters.

His loss at the outset of Operation Enduring Freedom (being the 6th casualty) was a devasting blow, yet we are and have been comforted with divine strength and are encouraged with the knowledge that his life touched so many. To us, as it is inscribed on his headstone, he was ‘outstanding’.