Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day

[Wendy Poling USAA]

“I pray that our Heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of freedom.” ….an exert from President Lincoln’s letter to Mrs. Bixby. Mrs. Bixby had five sons die in battle during the Civil War.

The last Sunday of September is designated National Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day. From the Naval Submarine Base New London Facebook page, “The “star” tradition began in WWI when white service flags were displayed from homes, business, schools, and churches. The flags indicated by the use of a blue star, each active service member in the U.S. Military. A gold star stitched over a blue star showed the nation those who had given their lives for their country, and it highlighted the devotion and pride of those left behind.”

Around the country there are several events happening to honor and remember the mothers and families of fallen service members and give them a chance to come together to talk about their journey and connect with other Gold Star mothers and families.

The Navy Gold Star Program is hosting “Bell’s Across America for Fallen Service Members” events. During the ceremony, “Gold Star Families in attendance will have an opportunity to have their loved one’s name read aloud and a bell tolled in honor of their loss and remembrance”. The remembrance ceremony honors service members who died while serving on Active Duty.

Here is list of just a few of the Bells Across America for Fallen Service Members Events:

Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay

Wednesday, September 26^th – 10am

NAS Jacksonville

Thursday, September 27^th – 8am

NAF El Centro

Thursday, September 27^th – 9am

Naval Base Kitsap

Thursday, September 27^th – 9am

Naval Base San Diego

Thursday, September 27^th – 9am

With over 30 events, visit NavyGoldStar.com/events for more information and to see if there is an event near you.

Other events:

Joint Base Lewis McChord, Washington

JBLM Directorate of Personnel & Family Readiness

The Club at McChord Field

Saturday, September 29^th, 2pm

Gold Star Mothers Weekend presented by American Gold Star Mothers, Inc.

September 28-30^th

Washington, DC

Visit https://www.goldstarmoms.com/2018-gsm-weekend-washington-dc.html for full details

Our nation owes a debt of gratitude to those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice. Let us live each day inspired by those fallen hero’s bravery. To the mothers and families of the fallen, this Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day and every day, we honor you and say thank you for your family’s sacrifice. #NeverForget

Resources:

TAPS – Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors

Gold Star Wives of America