Gold Star family facts for kids
Gold Star families are the relatives of US military members who died while serving their country. This special name honors their sacrifice and remembers the brave service members who gave their lives.
Contents
A Special History of Honor
From Blue to Gold Stars
During World War I, families of US soldiers and sailors often displayed flags. These flags had a blue star for each family member serving in the military. If a service member died in battle, their blue star was changed to a gold star. This showed that the family had lost a loved one in service.
Honoring Families with Pins
In August 1947, the United States Congress decided to give a special pin to these families. This first pin was a simple gold star on a purple background. It had a laurel wreath around it. This pin was given to family members of those killed in action.
Later, in 1973, Congress approved another pin. This one was a gold star with a gold background. It had four oak sprigs around the star. This pin was given to the closest family members of service members who died during their military service.
Modern Recognition
Today, the military still gives Gold Star lapel pins to family members. These pins honor those who have lost a loved one serving in the military. It is a way to show respect and gratitude for their sacrifice.
Famous Gold Star Families
- Khizr Khan and Ghazala Khan are the parents of Captain Humayun Khan. He died while serving in Iraq.
- General John F. Kelly is a retired Marine Corps general. His son, First Lieutenant Robert Kelly, died in Afghanistan.
- Jose Gonzalez Carranza is the father of Lance Corporal Jose Gonzalez. He died while serving in Afghanistan.
Images for kids
-
World War II–era service flag
-
Blue Star flag displayed in a window, June 2012
