I shared a post a couple of days ago about a Gold Star mother’s quest to educate those who cross her path about the Gold Star she has and what it represents. I thought it would good to post a little background and history of the Service Flag as a follow up.
Excerpt
SOURCE LINKThe service flag was first created by 1917 by Army Capt. Robert L. Queisser, in honor of his two sons who were serving in World War I. The flag grew in popularity in World War II and declined in esteem during the Vietnam War. Of late, there has been a flourish of employment due to prolonged deployments, increased deaths, and extended service.
The American Service Flag
The United States service flag is a red bordered white field with blue stars in place for each active service member. The stars are lined and set centered vertically. When the service flag is displayed, other than by being flown from a staff, it can be suspended either horizontally or vertically.
The United States Congress codified the service flag in 1967, delegating who was permitted to display the flag. A service flag may be displayed in a front window of any home of the immediate family of an individual serving in the Armed Forces of the United States during any duration of war or hostilities. It is not necessary for the member to be participating during the occupation or opposition. Immediate family includes any differentiation of parents, children, siblings, or spouses; this includes step-, foster, surrogate, and separated. The permission unfortunately, is not extended to grandparents.
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There are up to 10 official different types of stars, depending on different status of the military service member, including prisoners of war and service members who are missing in action. Most of the colors are no longer in commission. There are three main colors, however. The most prevalent is the blue star for enlisted service members. A gold star outlined in blue is for a service member who died in service.
The star is the same size as a regular blue star. A gold star takes the place of honor above all other stars. A silver star, usually less typical, is utilized for service members discharged for wounds.
