Service Flags were first flown by familes during World War I. The flag included one blue star for every immediate family member serving in the armed forces of the United States during any period of war or hostilities in which the United States was engaged. In the event of a service members death in service of our nation, that blue star is replaced with a gold star -- the highest honor.
The Gold Star allows members of the community to know the price that a family has paid for the cause of freedom.
The Strength of our nation is in our Military Servicemembers, and their strength is in their families. We must recognize that no one has given more for our nation than the families of the fallen.
Gold Star Families Memorial Monuments are a two-sided tribute made of black granite. One side bears the words: Gold Star Families Memorial Monument, a tribute to Gold Star Families and Relatives who sacrificed a Loved One for our Freedom. The other side has etched scenes on each of the four panels: Homeland, Family, Patriot, and Sacrifice. At the center of this tribute is a silhouette of a saluting service member, which represents the Legacy of the Loved Ones who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our Freedom. Together, these features tell each community's unique story based upon the Pillars of the Woody Williams Foundation.
Establish and provide a space the Gold Star Families can call their own in honor of their Loved Ones and their family
Demonstrate to Gold Star Families that their community cares for them and appreciates their sacrifice while also honoring the ultimate sacrifice of their Loved Ones
Strengthen local Gold Star Family communities through Gold Star Family outreach events associated with each monument location
Educate the general public about Gold Star Families' enduring sacrifices and the ultimate sacrifice made by their Loved Ones.