From the NFRW Armed Services Committee

Gold Star mothers and families are part of a group they hoped they would never belong. Their loved ones paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom, dying in the line of duty while serving in the United States Armed Forces. We honor Gold Star mothers and families on the last Sunday in September; this year it is observed on September 25.

Grace Darling Seibold started the American Gold Stars Mothers, Inc. in 1928 to remember what her son, who died in WWI in 1917, and others had fought for, and to perpetuate the ideals of why they fought. The organization obtained a federal charter in 1929 from Congress. 

Mrs. Seibold started the organization to let grieving mothers have a means to support each other; and to tend to hospitalized veterans in local hospitals. The organization was initially started in Washington, DC, but quickly spread throughout the nation. The American Gold Stars Mothers, Inc. continues to hold an annual conference, and other activities to ensure these families understand their benefits and know what non profits are willing to help them.

In 1936, Congress passed a resolution that designated the last Sunday in September as Gold Star Mother’s Day, and in 2011 President Obama amended the day to Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day.

Gold Star Mothers and Families can hang what is known as a Service Banner with a Gold Star (or more stars if additional family members have perished while serving). These banners are normally displayed in the front window of a home. 

Our military families never forget the sacrifice their loved ones made, and nor should we. This day is a time that we have an opportunity to pay tribute to their sacrifices and find ways to support those who remain behind. Think about donating to the American Gold Stars Mothers Inc. or Tunnels 2 Towers that support our Gold Star Mothers and Families.