Miguel Justin Nava

United States Marine Corps Captain Miguel Justin Nava tragically lost his life on February 7, 2024, in an aviation mishap during a routine flight training exercise. 

Nava grew up in Comstock Park, Michigan, alongside his parents and brother. He graduated from Comstock Park High School in 2013, he developed strong bonds with his family and was highly respected by peers for his positive influence and ability to inspire. He was an accomplished athlete and voted “Most Likely to Succeed.” Beyond his achievements, Nava cherished summers at the lake in Traverse City and found immense joy and freedom in flying and spending time on the water.

In 2017, Nava graduated from the United States Naval Academy. From a young age, he had a passion for flying, which ultimately guided him into his military career. His decorations include the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, reflecting his dedication and commitment to serving his country. Nava approached every mission with courage, professionalism, and an unwavering sense of duty that inspired those around him. He not only loved flying, but he loved teaching and mentoring others, always leading with humility and integrity. Truly, everyone loved him. As one colleague shared, “Miguel set the example of a Marine officer that we all looked up to. His legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of all Marines who have had the honor and privilege of meeting him,” and another wrote, “He was my favorite person to fly with and one of the best teachers I ever had.” 

Nava met his future wife, Ryann, through mutual friends, and from the very beginning, their connection was undeniable. He had just started flight school while she was living in Dallas, and when he returned a month later to visit, their bond deepened. From then on, they were inseparable, sharing a once-in-a-lifetime love that made even the simplest moments better together and more fun. When Nava and Ryann got engaged, they didn’t want to wait, so they got married at the local post office with just a notary — it was simple and perfect. Some of Ryann’s favorite memories are the little things they shared: fires on the patio, long walks, coffee, football, and, most of all, the joy of becoming parents to their son, Luca. Not everyone has the gift of being truly seen and accepted in marriage, but Nava and Ryann found that rare and beautiful kind of love, and it was clear to everyone around them.

Everything good and right in the world was reflected in the way Nava lived his life. He was a genuinely happy person, selfless and thoughtful. He always put others before himself and carried himself with the highest level of integrity. He lived each day with purpose, doing what he loved most — flying and being with his family — and he would not have changed a single thing about his life. Ryann honors Nava by living out those same values each day as an example for their son, Luca. She is raising him with the principles that guided Nava’s life, and teaching him to embrace each day as a gift. Despite the heartbreak of losing Nava, Ryann still feels like the luckiest girl in the world to have been his wife. Nava leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire — a shining example of how to live with purpose, integrity, and love, reminding us all to strive to be our very best.

United States Marine Corps Captain Miguel Justin Nava is survived by his loving wife, Ryann, and their beautiful son, Luca.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has provided the Nava family with a mortgage-free home through the Gold Star Family Home Program.