National Gold Star Spouses Day

Young woman holding a gold star, wearing a classy black dress, in front of an American flag backdrop..
National gold star spouses day illustration

Welcome to WhatNationalDayIsIt.com! Today, we're diving into the fascinating history of National Gold Star Spouses Day. Prepare to be enlightened and entertained as we explore the origins and significance of this special day.

When is Gold Star Spouses Day?

It's national gold star spouses day on the 5th April.


The Internet History of National Gold Star Spouses Day

On April 5th of every year, we come together to honor and pay tribute to the brave men and women serving in the United States Armed Forces. But there's one particular group of heroes, often overshadowed and underappreciated, that we recognize and honor on National Gold Star Spouses Day.

Gold Star Spouses are the wives and husbands of military service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. These courageous individuals have lost their beloved partners in the line of duty, and this day serves as a reminder to show our deep gratitude and support for their tremendous sacrifice.

The history of National Gold Star Spouses Day can be traced back to 2010 when it was first established by Congress. The aim was to raise awareness and acknowledge the dedicated and brave hearts of these surviving spouses. Today, a variety of events and ceremonies are held nationwide, providing an opportunity for the community to come together and show appreciation to these remarkable individuals.



History behind the term 'Gold Star Spouses'


1917

The Introduction of Gold Star Mothers

In 1917, during World War I, the term 'Gold Star Mothers' was introduced. It referred to mothers who had lost sons or daughters in service to their country. The tradition began when families started displaying a gold star in the window of their homes as a symbol of their loss. This simple yet powerful gesture was a way to honor the sacrifice made by these mothers and to recognize their pain and grief.


1945

Creation of the American Gold Star Mothers

In 1945, the American Gold Star Mothers organization was established to honor and support mothers who had lost a child in military service. This organization provided emotional support and camaraderie for grieving mothers, as well as opportunities for them to remember and honor their fallen sons and daughters.


1936

Formation of Gold Star Wives

In 1936, recognizing that spouses were also grieving the loss of a partner in military service, the organization 'Gold Star Wives of America' was formed. This group provided support and resources for widows who had lost their spouses in the armed forces. By creating a community of support, Gold Star Wives aimed to help these women navigate the challenges they faced, both during and after their spouse's service.



1947

Expansion to Include Spouses

In 1947, due to the growing recognition of the sacrifices made by spouses of fallen service members, the American Gold Star Mothers expanded to include spouses by forming the American Gold Star Wives. This expansion was made to provide support and a sense of community to the widows and widowers who had lost their beloved partners in military service.


2013

Recognition of Gold Star Spouses

In 2013, the term 'Gold Star Spouses' gained official recognition when it was included in the National Defense Authorization Act. This landmark legislation acknowledged the sacrifice made by military spouses and their unique status as bereaved partners. It provided them with specific benefits and support systems, recognizing the challenges they face in rebuilding their lives after the loss of their loved ones.


1973

Term 'Gold Star Spouses' Popularized

In 1973, after the end of the Vietnam War, the term 'Gold Star Spouses' gained popularity and was widely used to refer to the widows and widowers of fallen service members. This term highlighted their status as individuals who had made the ultimate sacrifice for their country and emphasized the respect and recognition they deserved.



2005

Official Recognition by Congress

In 2005, Congress officially recognized the term 'Gold Star Spouses' and their sacrifices by passing the 'Gold Star Wives Act'. This legislation provided certain benefits and privileges to the spouses of fallen service members, including access to healthcare, survivor benefits, and educational assistance.


2018

National Gold Star Spouses Day

In 2018, the United States designated April 5th as National Gold Star Spouses Day. This day is observed annually to honor the resilience, courage, and sacrifices of Gold Star Spouses. It serves as a reminder to the nation of the profound loss experienced by these individuals and the gratitude owed to them for their loved one's service.


Did you know?

Did you know that the gold star symbol became associated with military sacrifice during World War I? Families would hang a gold star in their windows to indicate that they had lost a loved one in service to their country.

Tagged

awareness loved ones remembrance

First identified

5th April 2016

Most mentioned on

5th April 2021

Total mentions

16

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