HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- Today, we honor Spouses who have sacrificed everything for their Nation. They have lovingly supported and served their military members by holding down the fort, keeping the home fires burning and always praying and hoping for the safe return of their loved ones. Unfortunately, their service members made the ultimate sacrifice. Not only will the Service Members NEVER BE FORGOTTEN, but neither will their spouse. For this we say, THANK YOU.
If you are unfamiliar with the term “Gold Star”, it is a tradition that began during World War I. Families who had service members serving would proudly display a service flag in the windows of their homes. Traditionally, you would see a blue star representing each family member in the armed forces. Then if the family received the tragic news of the loss of a service member, the star would then be represented as gold. Thus, the terms Gold Star Spouse, Gold Star Family, Gold Star Mother, etc., were born.
The first Gold Star Wives Day occurred in December 2010, but two years later it was officially recognized by the Senate and officially became Gold Star Wives Day on April 5th. The recognition has now become more inclusive and is known as Gold Star Spouses Day.
Gold Star Wives of America, Inc., is a staunch supporter of Gold Star Spouses from across all branches of the military. They work to preserve benefits for families and help spouses and children who have lost their beloved service member and are courageously facing a different kind of future. Don’t let their name fool you! Even though they are called “Gold Star Wives”, they welcome membership from any military spouse who has lost a loved one. In order to learn more about this organization, please visit their website at https://www.goldstarwives.org/
In an effort to recognize these spouses, Hurlburt Field also designated parking places especially for them. If you are visiting the Commissary or Exchange, you will see the first Gold Star Spouse parking spot that was designated at Hurlburt. The second designated parking spot is located at the Air Park.
The Air Force Families Forever Program through the Military & Family Readiness Center has the proud distinction of serving these family members. We are able to provide immediate and long-term bereavement care, service and support. Individualized resources and support for these families are provided as needed, and other services include: Base Access Cards, Comfort Quilts provided by North West Florida Quilts of Valor Association, financial counseling and more. They stand ready to serve you.
If you are interested in learning more about this program, please stop by the Air Force Families Forever table at the Hurlburt Field Open House on 14-15 April 2023. Meet Ms. Ellen Fields, Program Manager, and Dr. Sharon Kidd, Survivor Advocacy Council Member. Or reach out at any time by contacting the Military & Family Readiness Center at (850) 884-5441.
Gold Star Spouses remain a steadfast part of our military family and today, We Salute You!