Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day is observed in the United States on the last Sunday of September. The U.S. Congress recognizes this as the day when America honors surviving parents and Families of fallen service members – specifically those who died while on active duty.

The term Gold Star originated during World War I. Americans displayed flags in homes, businesses, schools and churches bearing a blue star for each Family member serving in the military. Families stitched a gold star over the blue star to honor those members who died during military service.

On Sunday, the Army will join the nation in observing Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day.

Army leaders encourage the military community to remember the service members who have given their lives in the service of the country and recognize the sacrifices of the loved ones who have been left behind.

Gold Star mothers and Families are the legacies of their service member’s ultimate sacrifice, and the Army considers Gold Star mothers and Families as integral members of the Army community.

The Army is dedicated to paying tribute to fallen service members in recognition of the loved ones they left behind. During the Soldier’s funeral service, the Army presents the surviving Family members with a gold star lapel button or the lapel button for next of kin of deceased personnel in honor of their fallen Soldier.

The U.S. Army Installation Management Command is committed to continue to provide quality care, support and services to surviving Family members, through programs such as Army Community Service-Survivor Outreach Services.

The Army is dedicated to providing ongoing support to more than 78,000 surviving Family members of fallen service members. ACS-SOS offers resources including supportive counseling, financial education, benefits coordination and support groups to surviving Family members for as long as they need or request Army involvement.

The Army will continue to collaborate with individuals, nonprofit organizations, and nongovernmental organizations that complement the Army’s support.

Gold Star mothers and Family members are, and always will be, a part of the Army Family. The Army recognizes their courage and sacrifice and is committed to supporting them.

Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day is set aside to remember the fallen and honor the surviving Families who have sacrificed so much.