What is a Gold Star in the Military?
The gold star is a symbol of pride, sacrifice, and dedication in the military. It is a prestigious award that is given to the family members of service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of their country. In this article, we will delve into the history, significance, and meaning of the gold star in the military.
What is a Gold Star?
A gold star is a symbol of sacrifice that is displayed on the family’s flag or on a gold star lapel pin. It is awarded to the immediate family members of a service member who has died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. The gold star is a token of honor that acknowledges the ultimate sacrifice made by the service member and serves as a reminder of their bravery and selflessness.
History of the Gold Star
The gold star was first introduced in 1918, during World War I, as a way to recognize the families of service members who had made the ultimate sacrifice. The American Gold Star Mothers organization was established in 1928 to support and care for the families of service members who had died in service. The gold star has since become a symbol of patriotism and sacrifice, and is displayed on the family’s flag or worn as a lapel pin.
Types of Gold Stars
There are several types of gold stars that can be awarded to family members, including:
- Gold Star Mother: A gold star is awarded to the mother of a service member who has died in service.
- Gold Star Father: A gold star is awarded to the father of a service member who has died in service.
- Gold Star Widow: A gold star is awarded to the widow of a service member who has died in service.
- Gold Star Child: A gold star is awarded to the child of a service member who has died in service.
- Gold Star Sibling: A gold star is awarded to the sibling of a service member who has died in service.
How to Obtain a Gold Star
To obtain a gold star, family members must apply through the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) or through the Veterans Administration (VA). The application process typically involves providing proof of the service member’s death and their relationship to the service member.
Gold Star Lapel Pin
The gold star lapel pin is a symbol of pride that is worn by family members to honor the memory of their loved one. The pin is typically worn on the left side of the lapel, with the star facing upwards. The lapel pin is a permanent reminder of the service member’s sacrifice and is a symbol of the family’s dedication to their memory.
Gold Star Flag
The gold star flag is a symbol of sacrifice that is displayed on the family’s home or at the service member’s funeral. The flag features a blue field with a gold star in the center, and is flown at half-staff to honor the service member’s memory.
Gold Star Benefits
Gold star family members are eligible for a range of benefits, including:
- Burial benefits: Gold star family members are eligible for burial benefits, including a headstone and a burial flag.
- Education benefits: Gold star family members are eligible for education benefits, including the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program.
- Health benefits: Gold star family members are eligible for health benefits, including the Veterans Administration (VA) healthcare system.
- Financial benefits: Gold star family members are eligible for financial benefits, including a Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) payment.
Conclusion
The gold star is a symbol of sacrifice that is awarded to the family members of service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of their country. It is a token of honor that acknowledges the bravery and selflessness of the service member and serves as a reminder of their dedication to their country. Whether displayed on a flag or worn as a lapel pin, the gold star is a symbol of pride that is cherished by family members and is a reminder of the service member’s ultimate sacrifice.
Table: Gold Star Benefits
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Burial Benefits | Eligible for burial benefits, including a headstone and a burial flag |
| Education Benefits | Eligible for education benefits, including the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program |
| Health Benefits | Eligible for health benefits, including the Veterans Administration (VA) healthcare system |
| Financial Benefits | Eligible for financial benefits, including a Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) payment |
Bullets: Important Points
• The gold star is a symbol of sacrifice that is awarded to the family members of service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of their country.
• The gold star is a token of honor that acknowledges the bravery and selflessness of the service member.
• The gold star is a symbol of pride that is cherished by family members and is a reminder of the service member’s ultimate sacrifice.
• Gold star family members are eligible for a range of benefits, including burial benefits, education benefits, health benefits, and financial benefits.
• The gold star lapel pin is a symbol of pride that is worn by family members to honor the memory of their loved one.
• The gold star flag is a symbol of sacrifice that is displayed on the family’s home or at the service member’s funeral.
