Survivor Outreach Services Mission Statement: To build a unified support program which embraces and reassures Survivors that they are continually linked to the Army Family for as long as they desire.
April 5th has been designated as “Gold Star Spouse’s Day” to honor Surviving Spouses of Fallen Service Members who died in service to our nation. It is important to raise awareness of this day to provide the support needed by the Gold Star Family community.
Our Gold Star Spouses wear the Gold Star or Next of Kin Lapel button as a symbol of honor. The Gold Star Lapel button (with the purple background) dates back to World War I and was approved by Congress in 1947 to be worn by the next of kin of Service Member who died in war or armed hostilities of the United States. The Next of Kin Lapel button was approved by Congress in 1973 to be worn by the next of kin of Service Members who died in non-combat operations. These pins are typically presented before or after the Soldier’s funeral service.
Gold Star Spouses are resilient legacies and integral members of our Military community. Supporting them through the awareness of “Gold Star Spouses' Day”, and every day, not only provides them with resources to meet their unique needs, but most importantly, to express our commitment in honoring the legacy of their Fallen Heroes and to remind them that they will always be part of our Military Family.
Article by: Catherine Ignacio, Survivor Outreach Service Coordinator, USAG-Bavaria, and Gold Star Spouse of SSG Jason P. Ignacio
