“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.
Mark A. Stets Jr. grew up in Virginia Beach, VA. After high school, he followed in his father's footsteps and enlisted in the Navy. After completing a tour in the Navy, he joined Army Psychological Operations. He deployed to Pakistan from 4th Group, 8th Battalion at Fort Bragg in 2009. He was based in Islamabad, but traveled throughout the country, training Pakistani soldiers. He was killed by a VIED on February 3, 2010. Mark earned many military awards, including the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, the Meritorious Service Metal and the Combat Action Badge. The Senior Leader Course for Psychological Operations at the NCO Academy at Fort Bragg awards the Staff Sergeant Mark A. Stets Jr. Leadership Award to the course participant that exemplifies the outstanding qualities of a leader. Mark’s parents, Mark and Nancy, are honored to present the Award in his name. He is remembered by his wife, Nina, his three daughters, Jessica, December and Rachael, and his paretns, Nancy and Mark.