Gold Star Mothers

Gold Star Mothers. The organization was founded by Grace Darling Seibold, a mother who lost her son in World War I, with the help of President Calvin Coolidge and General John J. Pershing. The American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars also supported the establishment of the organization. The United States Congress passed a resolution in 1936, recognizing the last Sunday in September as Gold Star Mother's Day, which is still observed today, honoring mothers who have lost a child in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and other conflicts, including the War in Afghanistan and the Iraq War.

● History of

Gold Star Mothers The history of Gold Star Mothers dates back to World War I, when President Woodrow Wilson displayed a Service flag with a gold star in his White House window to symbolize the loss of his own son, Quentin Roosevelt, who was killed in action during the Battle of the Somme. This tradition was continued by President Franklin D. Roosevelt during World War II, and the United Service Organizations (USO) also played a significant role in supporting the families of fallen soldiers, including Gold Star Mothers. The organization was officially founded in 1928 by Grace Darling Seibold, who lost her son, George Seibold, in World War I, and was supported by notable figures such as General Douglas MacArthur and Eleanor Roosevelt. The American Red Cross and the Salvation Army also provided assistance to Gold Star Mothers during times of war, including the Korean War and the Vietnam War.

● Eligibility and Membership

To be eligible for membership in Gold Star Mothers, a mother must have lost a child in military service, including the United States Army, United States Navy, United States Air Force, United States Marine Corps, and United States Coast Guard. The organization also welcomes mothers who have lost a child in service to the National Guard and Reserve components, such as the Army National Guard and the Air National Guard. Membership is open to mothers who have lost a child in any conflict, including the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War, the Spanish-American War, and the Gulf War. Notable members include mothers of soldiers who served in the 101st Airborne Division, the 1st Marine Division, and the 82nd Airborne Division, and were involved in battles such as the Battle of Normandy, the Battle of Iwo Jima, and the Battle of Fallujah.

● Symbolism and Traditions

The gold star is a symbol of sacrifice and honor, and is often displayed by Gold Star Mothers on a Service flag or a lapel pin. The organization also observes traditional rituals, such as the Gold Star Mother's Day ceremony, which is held annually on the last Sunday in September. During this ceremony, Gold Star Mothers gather to honor the memory of their fallen children, and to support one another in their grief. The United States Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense also participate in the ceremony, which is often attended by notable figures such as the President of the United States, the Vice President of the United States, and the Secretary of Defense. The Arlington National Cemetery and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific are also significant locations for Gold Star Mothers, who often visit the graves of their fallen children on Memorial Day and Veterans Day.

● Notable

Gold Star Mothers Notable Gold Star Mothers include Phyllis Schlafly, who lost her son in the Vietnam War, and Cindy Sheehan, who lost her son in the Iraq War. Other notable members include mothers of soldiers who served in the Special Forces, such as the Green Berets and the Navy SEALs, and were involved in operations such as the Operation Desert Storm and the Operation Enduring Freedom. Gold Star Mothers have also been recognized for their advocacy work, including Teresa Davis, who founded the Support Our Troops organization, and Karen Meredith, who has worked with the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) to support families of fallen soldiers. The United States Senate and the United States House of Representatives have also honored Gold Star Mothers with resolutions and awards, including the Congressional Gold Medal.

● Organization and Activities

The organization is led by a national president, who is elected by the membership, and is supported by a network of local chapters, including the New York City chapter and the Los Angeles chapter. Gold Star Mothers also participate in various activities, such as visiting veterans' hospitals, including the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and the VA Medical Center, and supporting military families through organizations such as the USO and the American Red Cross. The organization also works with other groups, such as the Disabled American Veterans and the Paralyzed Veterans of America, to advocate for the rights of veterans and their families. The Pentagon and the White House also work closely with Gold Star Mothers to support their activities and recognize their sacrifices.

● Impact and Legacy

The impact of Gold Star Mothers on American society has been significant, as the organization has provided support and comfort to thousands of mothers who have lost a child in military service. The organization has also played a key role in promoting patriotism and honoring the sacrifices of military families, including the Purple Heart recipients and the Medal of Honor recipients. The United States Congress has recognized the importance of Gold Star Mothers by passing legislation such as the Gold Star Mothers and Families Act, which provides benefits and support to families of fallen soldiers. The National WWII Museum and the Smithsonian National Museum of American History have also recognized the contributions of Gold Star Mothers to American history, and the organization continues to be an important part of American culture and tradition, including the National Memorial Day Concert and the America's Parade. Category:Veterans' organizations