History of the Gold Star
The Gold Star is a modern term and the reference comes from those family displaying the Service Flag. These flags and
banner were first flown by familie during World War I, at the start of the American involvement in 1917. The families
hung these banners and flags with blue star for every immediate family member serving in the armed forces of the
United States. If the service member died in combat, the family changed the blue star to gold.
After the war, Gold Star mothers banded together incorporating in 1928. Gold Start Mother's Day and Gold Star
Spouses days are not public holidays, they are observed in the United States as a way for people to recognize and
honor those who have lost a son, daughter or spouse while serving serving in the United States Armed Forces. Gold
Star Mother's Day is observed the last Sunday of September, while Gold Star Spouses Day is observed April 5th.