Albany, NY - September 29, 2013 - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today paused to remember the sacrifices of the mothers and families of the service members who have lost their lives while serving in the United States Armed Forces. The Governor also issued a proclamation designating today, September 29, 2013, as Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day in the State of New York.
Since 1936, the last Sunday in September has been designated by Congress as Gold Star Mother’s Day. During World War I, military families would hang a flag in the window of their home – a red bordered banner with one blue star for each family member fighting in the armed forces. They would replace the blue star with a gold star if a family member died in the line of duty.
“Few know the cost of war more than the families left behind, so we dedicate this day to honor the sacrifices of the Gold Star Mothers and Families that have lost family members who served in the United States Armed Forces,” Governor Cuomo said. “On this day of remembrance, New York State is proud to pay tribute to the outstanding patriots who went to war and never returned home, and we reflect upon the pain and anguish that lingers with their families and friends. We are eternally grateful for their service to our nation.”
New York State joins in this annual tribute to honor the Gold Star Mothers and Families and will uphold the tradition of displaying the flag of the United States over government buildings on this special day. Governor Cuomo also encourages New Yorkers to display the flag as a public expression of sympathy, gratitude, and respect for New York’s Gold Star Mothers and Families.
To view the Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day Proclamation, click here.