Honoring Gold Star Families this Memorial Day

A bridge dedicated to honoring Gold Star families and fallen heroes.

News Summary

This Memorial Day, families across the nation gather to honor Gold Star families. Evelyn Brady reflects on her son, Mohammed ‘Mo’ Haitham, a naval aircrewman killed in 2019. Haitham, who confronted a shooter at Naval Air Station Pensacola, was posthumously honored with the Navy and Marine Corps medal. A new highway named after him serves as a tribute to his bravery and sacrifice. Brady emphasizes the significance of commemorating those who have served, fostering remembrance and appreciation for their dedication.

St. Petersburg, FL – This Memorial Day, families across the nation come together to honor Gold Star families who have lost loved ones in military service. Among them is Evelyn Brady, who reflects on the sacrifice of her son, Mohammed “Mo” Haitham, a young naval aircrewman killed in a terrorist attack at Naval Air Station Pensacola in 2019.

Haitham, just 19 years old at the time of his death, lost his life during a tragic incident in which a Saudi soldier in training opened fire during a class at the base. Haitham bravely attempted to confront the attacker, showcasing his commitment to protecting others. This assault was later claimed by the extremist group Al-Qaeda.

In recognition of his heroic actions, Haitham was posthumously awarded several honors, including the Navy and Marine Corps medal, which is regarded as the Navy’s highest non-combat decoration for acts of heroism. His mother, Evelyn Brady, a veteran herself, currently serves as the president of the American Gold Star Mothers Inc. for the Tampa Bay area.

This year marks the first Memorial Day for Brady after her son was honored with a new highway designation, which serves to commemorate his service and sacrifice. The Gandy Boulevard bridge has officially been designated as the “AWF3 Mohammed “Mo” Haitham Memorial Highway”. This designation allows for a lasting tribute that will be recognized by many who traverse the area.

Brady emphasizes the importance of honoring fallen service members in meaningful and productive ways. She expresses her sentiments regarding the highway, sharing that every time she crosses the Gandy Bridge, she is filled with memories of her son and smiles at the legacy he leaves behind.

In addition to his military service, Haitham was known for his talents as a star athlete during his high school years at Lakewood High School. To further honor his memory, an invitational track meet was held in his name last month, allowing friends, family, and community members to gather and pay tribute to his legacy.

Brady hopes that by memorializing her son in such a significant manner, all Americans will be reminded of the profound sacrifices made by military personnel for their freedom and safety. The designation of the memorial highway serves as a constant reminder of Haitham’s dedication and the ultimate price he paid while serving his country.

As the nation observes Memorial Day, events like these encourage reflection on the sacrifices of those who have served in the armed forces, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation for their commitment. The efforts to commemorate those fallen heroes, like Mohammed Haitham, stand as powerful symbols of honor and remembrance.

The continuing impact of Haitham’s bravery and the recognition afforded to him through the memorial highway and other tributes ensure that his legacy lives on among both friends and family and the wider community, reminding everyone of the cost of freedom and safety in the United States.