Grace Darling Seibold, after losing her son George Vaughn Seibold during World War I, organized a group devoted to extending the hand of friendship to other mothers whose sons had lost their lives in military service.
The organization was named, "American Gold Star Mothers, Inc." after the Gold Star that families hung in their windows in honor of the deceased veteran.
The Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 115 of June 23, 1936 (49 Stat. 1895 as amended), has designated the last Sunday in September as "Gold Star Mother's Day."
President Obama released the following statement about this special day:
In a long line of heroes stretching from the greens of Lexington and Concord to the mountains of Afghanistan, selfless patriots have defended our lives and liberties with valor and honor. They have been ordinary Americans who loved their country so profoundly that they were willing to give their lives to keep it safe and free. As we pay tribute to the valiant men and women in uniform lost in battle, we also recognize the deep loss and great strength of those who share in that ultimate sacrifice: America's Gold Star Mothers and Families.
For those in our Armed Forces who gave their last full measure of devotion, their loved ones know the high cost of our hard won freedoms and security. An empty seat at the table and missed milestones leave a void that can never be filled, yet the legacy of our fallen heroes lives on in the people they loved. Their exceptional spirit of service dwells in the pride of Gold Star parents, who instilled the values that led these brave men and women to service. It grows in the hearts of their children, who know that, despite their absence, they gave their lives so others might be free. And, it echoes in the enduring love of their spouses the backbone of our military families who supported the person they cherished most in the world in serving our Nation. Though our Gold Star families have sacrificed more than most can ever imagine, they still find the courage and strength to comfort other families, support veterans, and give back to their communities.
It is from these examples of unwavering patriotism that we witness the values and ideals for which our country was founded, and for which America's sons and daughters have laid down their lives. As members of a grateful Nation, we owe a debt we can never repay, but hold this sacred obligation forever in our hearts, minds, and actions.
As a way to remember those who have given their lives in military service to this country and the mothers they have left behind, we ask that you leave a comment in their memory and a thank you to the mothers (and families) for their sacrifice.
