National monument to Gold Star mothers, families under development

Since the World War I era, the concept of the Gold Star mother – and Gold Star family – has been part of the fabric of the nation. As the Blue Star signifies a family member serving in the armed forces, the Gold Star signifies one who has died while serving. Now, to honor these families, plans are underway for a national monument in the Washington, D.C., area.

At The American Legion's Spring Meetings in May, the National Executive Committee passed Resolution No. 15, supporting the construction of the Gold Star Mothers National Monument. The Gold Star Mothers National Monument Foundation (GSMNMF) has gained authorization for the monument to be located on federal land, adjacent to Arlington National Cemetery. According to foundation literature, “The monument will honor all mothers and families, whether members of an organization or not, who know the grief of losing a loved one, and will promote a bond of kinship among those who memorialize our nation’s defenders.”

The initial architectural concept involves a statue of a mother receiving a telegram with news of her child’s death that faces the Arlington graves, as well as panels with bronze reliefs describing the Gold Star’s history and honoring the family.

The foundation will rely on private fundraising and donations to make the monument happen; among early donors are several American Legion posts and departments. Visit the foundation’s website at www.gsmmonument.org to learn more.