Gold Star Families

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Gold Star Families are the immediate relatives of a service member who has lost their life while engaged in active-duty military service.

The Gold Star originated during World War I when families traditionally displayed a service flag with a blue star that represented their family members who were serving in the military. The blue star was changed to gold if a service member died on active duty. 

The Gold star represents the ultimate sacrifice made by the fallen service member. This star allows the community to understand the family's sacrifice for freedom and the nation. 

There are many Gold Star Families in the Southwest Florida Community. These families carry a deep sense of loss and profound pride for their fallen family members. It is important to honor their service and sacrifice, ensuring that the legacies of their family members are never forgotten. 

Gold Star Mother's and Families' Day is observed on the last Sunday in September, providing an opportunity to honor and recognize the sacrifice and resilience of the Gold Star Families. 

You can support Gold Star Families by increasing awareness and continuing the legacies of their loved ones who made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom, letting them know that the they will never be forgotten.