Today is Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day, a day of remembrance and a day to recognize the families who carry the loss of a loved one who died in service to our nation.

The Gold Star tradition reaches back to World War I, when families displayed service flags with a blue star representing each family member serving in the Armed Forces. When a service member died, the blue star was replaced by a gold star. From that tradition came the terms Gold Star Mother and Gold Star Family.

In 1936, Congress designated the last Sunday in September as Gold Star Mother’s Day. Over the years, the observance has broadened to recognize the families who have shared in that loss, and today we observe Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day.

Behind every Gold Star is a name, a life, and a family. The star represents a sacrifice that does not end when the ceremonies and honors are over. For the mothers, fathers, spouses, children, siblings and other family members left behind, that loss remains a part of their lives.

Today, the Air & Space Forces Association Palm Springs Chapter 134 joins communities across the nation in honoring our Gold Star Mothers and Families. We remember their loved ones and recognize the sacrifice of those who served and the families who carry their memory forward.

Their sacrifice. Our gratitude. Always.