Honoring the Heroes Among Us: Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day

WASHINGTON — Since its inception in 1936, the last Sunday of September has been set aside as Gold Star Mother’s Day to recognize and honor mothers who have lost a child in the United States armed forces. In 2009, a presidential proclamation expanded the observance to include families, renaming it Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day. This annual observance honors their immense sacrifices.

The designation, this year falling on September 29, 2024, includes a presidential proclamation reaffirming a commitment to honor those carrying forward the memories of service members who laid down their lives for the United States and its liberties. The tribute acknowledges their ongoing grief and honors their loved one’s memory.

The Navy Gold Star Program provides a support system for these families. It offers a safe environment to process grief, ensures the provision of necessary resources, and provides continuous remembrance opportunities. This support helps Gold Star Families adjust to their new reality and remain an integral part of the Navy community.

The importance of this day is a reminder that the sacrifice of these families should never be forgotten. For further resources or support, Gold Star Families can visit www.facebook.com/navygoldstar or www.navygoldstar.com, or call 1-888-509-8759.