National Gold Star Spouse Day

A loving couple embracing, dressed in elegant attire, surrounded by a warm sunset, symbolizing the resilience and strength of gold star spouses.. — National gold star spouse day illustration

Hey there! Are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of National Gold Star Spouse Day? Grab a cup of coffee and get comfy, because we're about to explore the internet history and interesting facts behind this special day.

When is Gold Star Spouse Day?

It's national gold star spouse day on the 6th April.

The Internet History of National Gold Star Spouse Day

National Gold Star Spouse Day is a day dedicated to honoring the partners of fallen military service members. It's a time for us to recognize the strength, courage, and sacrifice of these amazing individuals who have lost their loved ones in service to our country.

The origins of National Gold Star Spouse Day can be traced back to an online movement that gained momentum in the early 2000s. In honor of the spouses who have made the ultimate sacrifice, people began sharing their stories and experiences on social media platforms and forums, using the hashtag #GoldStarSpouse. The aim was to raise awareness and provide support for those who have lost their partners in military service.

As the movement grew, the idea of designating a specific day to honor Gold Star Spouses gained traction. In 2010, a petition was created on the official White House website, urging the government to establish National Gold Star Spouse Day. The petition garnered thousands of signatures, and on April 5, 2011, then-President Barack Obama officially declared April 5th as National Gold Star Spouse Day.

How to Celebrate National Gold Star Spouse Day

Celebrating National Gold Star Spouse Day can take many forms, each as meaningful as the last. It's all about honoring and supporting the Gold Star Spouses in our communities. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Reach out to a Gold Star Spouse you may know and let them know that you're there for them. Sometimes, a simple act of kindness can go a long way.
Attend a local event or ceremony dedicated to honoring fallen service members and their spouses. These events often include speeches, performances, and opportunities to connect with other Gold Star Spouses.
Support organizations that provide resources and assistance to Gold Star Spouses. By donating your time or money, you can make a difference in their lives.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the term 'Gold Star' originated in World War I? Families would hang a blue star in their windows to symbolize a loved one serving in the war. If that loved one died, the blue star would be replaced with a gold star. This tradition has continued ever since and is now associated with honoring fallen service members.

History behind the term 'Gold Star Spouse'

1918

The Birth of Gold Star

The term 'Gold Star' originates from World War I when families would hang a small blue flag in their homes, with a gold star sewn on it for each family member who had fallen in combat. The gold star became a symbol of honor and sacrifice, representing the loss of a loved one in service to their country.

1939

Gold Star Mothers

In 1939, the organization 'American Gold Star Mothers' was formed. This group consisted of mothers who had lost a child in the military. They aimed to provide support and comfort to one another while working together to assist veterans and promote peace.

1947

Gold Star Wives

Building upon the support network established by Gold Star Mothers, the organization 'Gold Star Wives of America' was founded in 1945 and officially established in 1947. Gold Star Wives provided support, resources, and advocacy for the spouses of fallen military service members.

1984

Expanding the Term

Over time, the term 'Gold Star' expanded to include all family members who had lost a loved one in military service. This included spouses, children, parents, and siblings. In particular, the term 'Gold Star Spouse' began to be used to specifically recognize the surviving spouse.

2016

Official Gold Star Spouse Day

On December 18, 2012, the United States Congress designated April 5th as 'Gold Star Spouses Day' to honor the spouses of fallen service members. This day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by these individuals and the enduring strength they possess. The designation of this national day acknowledges the unique challenges and resilience of Gold Star Spouses.