Navy Gold Star

The Navy Gold Star Program provides long-term support for the surviving families of Sailors who pass away while on active duty. The program offers ongoing assistance, resources, and connections to services that help families build resilience and navigate life after loss.

Watch the Navy Gold Star Program – Command Video

Eligibility

The Navy Gold Star Program supports eligible surviving family members, including:

  • Widows and widowers
  • Parents (biological, adoptive, step, foster, or in loco parentis)
  • Children (biological, adopted, or stepchildren)
  • Siblings, half-siblings, and step-siblings


Gold Star Referral

To connect with a Navy Gold Star Coordinator, call 1-888-509-8759 or email navygoldstar.fct@navy.mil. A coordinator will reach out to provide personalized support.

Gold Star Coordinators

Navy Gold Star Coordinators use a comprehensive approach to support families by connecting them with available government and community resources. Services may include:

  • Chaplain support
  • Personal financial counseling
  • School liaison assistance
  • Family employment resources
  • Clinical counseling


Remembering the Fallen

Gold Star Lapel Button
This lapel button honors service members who lost their lives during armed hostilities. It features a gold star on a purple background with a gold border and laurel leaves, symbolizing honor and sacrifice.

Next of Kin Lapel Button
This button honors service members who passed away while serving honorably under circumstances not covered by the Gold Star Lapel Button criteria. It features a gold star within a circle, surrounded by sprigs of oak representing the Armed Forces.

Gold Star Service Flag
The Gold Star Service Flag is displayed in remembrance of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Gold Star Parking
Designated Gold Star parking spaces honor the sacrifice of fallen Sailors and their families. These spaces are reserved exclusively for Gold Star Families as a gesture of gratitude and respect.