“LET IT BE KNOWN, That it is with a great deal of respect for all of his accomplishments that we join the family of Navy Petty Officer First Class Ross L. Toles III in remembering his significant contributions to the people of the state of Michigan and for his service to the United States. He was a man devoted to his family and committed to his work, and his cherished memory will not fade from the hearts and minds of those who knew and loved him.

Raised in Davison, Michigan, Toles was very involved with his wife and three sons and was a positive light in the lives of everyone who knew him. He raised a family who believed in the role of loyalty to family and country to the highest order. He was considered by his co-workers as a vibrant, free-spirited person who was always willing to lend a helping hand; and by his Lieutenant Commander as being the best in the field of public works and construction battalions.

The mission of the United States Navy is to maintain, train, and equip combat-ready naval forces capable of winning wars, deterring aggression, and maintaining freedom of the seas. In the process of doing this, the Navy works to instill 3 core values of honor, courage, and commitment into the hearts and minds of every one of its officers. Through his allegiance to our nation, Ross has exhibited honor by dedicating almost 20 years of his life in the U.S. Navy and by making the ultimate sacrifice—his life. Ross was a great example of what a Navy officer should strive to become.

During his service, he earned several awards and decorations that included the 2007 Selres Sailor of the Year Award, 2 Joint Meritorious Unit Awards, 2 Navy Reserve Meritorious Service Medals, 2 National Defense Service Medals, 3 Sea Service Deployment Ribbons, a Navy ‘E’ Ribbon, and a Humanitarian Service Medal.

Just shy of serving 20 years with the Navy, Petty Officer First Class Ross L. Toles’ life was cut short on June 18, 2008, in Pakika province, Afghanistan, while assigned to a reconstruction team. His dedication to his work and his vibrant style will be missed.

IN SPECIAL TRIBUTE, Therefore, This document is signed and dedicated in remembrance of Navy Petty Officer First Class Ross L. Toles III. May his family accept this tribute as a symbol of the high regard in which his memory is held by the people of Michigan.”

A moment of silence was observed in memory of Navy Petty Officer First Class Ross L. Toles III.