The month of May is Gold Star Awareness Month, a time to honor and recognize the sacrifice that Gold Star families make when a father, mother, brother, sister, son, daughter or spouse dies during active military service.
The Gold Star symbol originated during World War I when families hung banners with blue stars in their windows to represent an immediate family member serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. If a family member died in combat, the blue star was replaced with a gold star.
U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, adjutant general and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, said, “No one has given more to our nation than our service members lost in combat and the Gold Star families left behind. These heroes paid the ultimate sacrifice in order to protect our freedoms and we remain in service to their families as they carry on with courage and dignity despite their devastating loss.”
The Michigan National Guard Family Programs Office provides support and care for service members and families of the Michigan National Guard while enhancing the readiness and well-being of their military families through information, education, programs and resources. Gold Star families can learn more about the Gold Star Family Support Program by contacting 1-888-MICH-FAM.
Governor Whitmer said, “This month, we honor those who lost a family member in the United States Armed Forces and extend our gratitude for the sacrifices made by our Gold Star families. Michiganders remember our fallen heroes and stand together in support of our Gold Star families so they know their sacrifice is not forgotten.”
