“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.
Captain Reggie Parks Carpenter also known as “Regbo” to fellow aviators, bravely served in the defense of the United States for 29 years. He flew tactical missions in three jet aircraft, in four operational squadrons, and over six aircraft carrier-based deployments including one as an exchange pilot with the French Navy.
A graduate of the US Naval War College with a Masters in National Security and Strategic Studies, the personal highlight of his career was Commanding Officer of Strike Fighter Squadron EIGHTY-THREE (VFA-83), an F/A-18C Hornet squadron at NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach, VA. He also proudly served in diplomatic roles as Naval Attaché in both Paris, France and Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Captain Carpenter was a highly decorated naval aviator who earned many awards and medals during his career including the Distinguished Flying Cross and Legion of Merit.
A devoted, loving husband and father, he was also a kind, passionate man with a quick wit and a boundless zest for life. Captain Carpenter made the most of his life, fulfilled so many dreams and continues to serve as a model for his surviving wife and daughters.