[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 70 (Wednesday, May 16, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E818]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING THE BLUE STAR MOTHERS OF AMERICA

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. PATRICK MEEHAN

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 16, 2012

  Mr. MEEHAN. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the Blue Star Mothers 
of America. The Blue Star Mothers of America was founded in 1942 in 
order to bring together the mothers of children serving in the United 
States Armed Forces. In 1960, the nonprofit organization was chartered 
by the Congress of the United States. The Blue Star Mothers continue to 
provide support for active duty service personnel, promote patriotism, 
assist veteran's organizations and homeland volunteer efforts. Not only 
is the organization for mothers, but family members and friends may 
become associate members, and fathers of military personnel may join 
the Father's Association. During World War I, the Blue Star Service 
Flag was designed by Captain Robert L. Queissar and went on to become 
an unofficial symbol of a child in service. Today this same flag is an 
official banner authorized by the Department of Defense for display by 
families and associations who have members serving in the Armed Forces 
during a period of war. I ask that the U.S. House of Representatives 
honor the month of May as Blue Star Mothers Month, keeping in mind that 
sons and daughters continue to fight for our freedoms and protect this 
great Nation both domestically and abroad.

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