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Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green) has reintroduced a resolution honoring Gold Star Families by designating March 2, 2020 as “Gold Star Families Remembrance Day.” The resolution, H.Res. 269, would honor and recognize the sacrifices made by the families of military members who gave their lives to defend freedom and protect America. March 2, 2020 will be the 91^st anniversary of President Calvin Coolidge signing legislation to approve and fund the first Gold Star pilgrimage, enabling Gold Star families to travel to the gravesites of their loved ones who died during World War I.

The term Gold Star family is derived from families that flew flags during World War I. A blue star on the flag meant that an immediate family member was serving in the U.S. armed forces. If the family member was killed in action, the blue star was replaced with a gold one. Gold Star Mother’s Day is celebrated the last Sunday in every September, but there is no day dedicated to the entire family that is affected by the loss of a loved one in combat. 

“This upcoming March 2, we should honor the family members of those that have given the ultimate sacrifice in defense of this nation,” said Latta. “It’s long past time that we have a day dedicated to the loved ones of these heroic military members. I’m hopeful that this resolution will be passed in the coming months in order to finally recognize the Gold Star Families that have given so much for our country.”

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