Gold Star families are those who have lost an immediate family member—such as a parent, spouse, sibling, or child—due to their service in the U.S. military during a period of war or hostilities. The term originated during World War I from the practice of displaying a Service Flag, which featured a blue star for each family member serving in the military; when a service member died, the blue star was replaced with a gold star to signify the family’s sacrifice[1][5][8]. The United States formally recognizes Gold Star families through several observances, including Gold Star Mother's and Family Day on the last Sunday of September and Gold Star Spouses Day on April 5. The Gold Star Lapel Button, authorized by Congress in 1947, is presented to surviving family members as a symbol of their loved one’s ultimate sacrifice[1][5][8]. Gold Star families play a significant role in preserving the memory and legacy of fallen service members and often participate in programs such as the Veterans History Project, which collects personal accounts to honor veterans’ service and sacrifice[3]. Organizations like the Gold Star Wives and local support groups provide ongoing assistance and community to bereaved families, acknowledging their grief and promoting healing[1][6]. The losses represented by Gold Star families span all U.S. conflicts, including World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, and more recent wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Since 9/11, thousands of service members have died both in combat and non-combat circumstances, leaving behind living Gold Star families who continue to receive recognition and support[6]. Government and military agencies offer outreach and assistance through programs such as Survivor Outreach Services to ensure these families are supported emotionally and practically over time. These efforts underscore the nation’s recognition that the strength of its armed forces is closely tied to the strength of the families of the fallen[1][4][9].