[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 153 (Thursday, September 21, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E873]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      HONORING GOLD STAR FAMILIES

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. AARON BEAN

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 21, 2023

  Mr. BEAN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, the title of a Gold Star Family is 
an honor that no family wants. You see, Mr. Speaker, this title is 
reserved for families of military members who have died in the line of 
duty, and it honors the service member's ultimate sacrifice while 
acknowledging their family's loss, grief, and continued healing.
  Today, I rise to salute the 14 Gold Star Families that were honored 
in Jacksonville, Florida on Sunday, August 24, 2023.
  The phrase ``Gold Star Family,'' dates back to World War I, when 
military families displayed service flags featuring a blue star for 
every immediate family member serving in the Armed Forces. The star's 
color would be changed to gold if the family lost a loved one in the 
war.
  Today, and every day, we hold dear those who have answered the 
dreaded knock at the door, accepted Old Glory folded with crisp edges, 
and tearfully spoken their final farewell. Members of a Gold Star 
Family bear the absence of their fallen hero proudly. They deserve our 
respect and support for their determination to preserve the memories of 
those brave American warriors who sacrificed their lives in service to 
this great Nation.
  Gold Star Families find the courage and conviction to press on, 
transforming their heartbreak into hope, service, and outreach to 
veteran groups and other military families coping with the same 
unimaginable loss. It is their ability to endure, overcome, and in turn 
enrich the lives of others that exemplifies the true American Spirit.
  When service members serve, they don't do it alone. Their spouses, 
children, parents, siblings, and loved ones are a vital part of our 
country's military community and history.
  On this solemn day, we recognize and honor the Gold Star Families of 
heroes who never made it back home.
  We will remember them when we say our prayers, support them in our 
deeds, and today, we join them in honoring their hero's ultimate 
sacrifice.

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