By Sandra Neuman and Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jeffry Willadsen
When one thinks of a military member, one image that may come into their mind is that of shining medals glistening on the chest of a service member in a sharply pressed uniform. Medals and other decorations, including the Medal of Honor, Silver and Bronze Stars, and Purple Heart, among many others, have become synonymous with heroic military service. There is one decoration awarded by the military, however, that is often given to those that have never served in the armed forces. Though those who receive this decoration consider it a great honor, they would also say that it is something that you never want to receive. This is the gold star pin.
Those receiving this cherished pin are family members who have lost a loved one who was on active duty. These surviving family members are known as Gold Star Families. Though many who receive this pin are not service members themselves, their sacrifice earns them great respect in the eyes of those who have served.
There is a long history behind the tradition of recognizing Gold Star Families. During World War I, it became popular for parents who had a child serving overseas to display a banner with a blue star. In this way, they could show their support and pride in their loved one who was serving bravely in “The Great War”. If that child died while serving, the flag would then have a smaller gold star superimposed on it. This new image appeared to be a gold star with a blue outline. This symbol became synonymous with military families who lost a service member.
There are two different types of Gold Star pins that are given to family members who have lost a loved one serving in the military.
The Gold Star Lapel Pin has a gold star on a purple background. It is bordered in gold and surrounded by gold laurel leaves. This design was established by an act of Congress on August 1, 1947 to identify widows, parents, and next of kin for service members who had lost their lives during armed hostilities dating back to World War I.
The Next of Kin of Deceased Personnel Lapel Button has a gold star within a circle that is surrounded by four sprigs of oak. These oak sprigs represent the branches of the U.S. armed services. This button is designated for family members that had a Service Member who served honorably and lost their life while on active duty but not while in armed combat. This button is authorized to be issued retroactively beginning March 29, 1973.
Families of those who died while serving in the Navy fall under the Navy Gold Star Program. This program helps these families to understand the benefits they can receive after the death of a loved one, and seeks to support them through their time of loss.
Now that you know the significance of gold star pins and the history behind them, be sure to share this knowledge with anyone interested in learning what the military does to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and their families. Additionally, if you happen to come across someone wearing one of these pins or hear of someone being referred to as a Gold Star spouse, parent, etc., perhaps take a moment to appreciate their journey and the sacrifices they have made.
For more information about the Gold Star Programs assisting Gold Star Families, please visit www. navygoldstar.com.