At Soldiers’ Angels, we stand firmly behind the families of our Nation’s fallen heroes. One of the most solemn and sacred symbols within the United States Military community is the Gold Star—a mark of ultimate sacrifice, honor, and remembrance. But what exactly does the Military Gold Star mean, and who qualifies to bear it?

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The Origin of the Gold Star

The tradition of using stars to symbolize Military service dates back to World War I, when families would hang Service Banners in their windows. Each blue star on the banner represented an immediate family member serving in the Armed Forces. If a Service Member was killed in action, the blue star was replaced with a gold star, signifying the Service Member had died in the line of duty.

This simple yet profound symbol quickly became a national emblem of mourning and honor. The Gold Star acknowledges that the Service Member gave everything—their life—for our country.

Who Qualifies as a Gold Star Family?

Gold Star Families are the immediate family members of a Service Member who died while serving in a conflict, during a Military operation, or as a result of injuries sustained during service. This includes:

• Spouses
• Parents (biological, adoptive, or stepparents)
• Children (biological, adopted, or stepchildren)
• Siblings

The Department of Defense recognizes these families as eligible for various support programs and honors, including the Gold Star Lapel Button—a pin awarded to the next of kin by the U.S. Military as a visible token of their loss and our Nation’s gratitude.

Types of Gold Star Lapel Buttons

It’s important to note there are two distinct pins the Military may issue:

1. Gold Star Lapel Button – For those whose loved one died in a combat zone, under hostile conditions, or during an act of terrorism.
2. Next of Kin Lapel Button – For Families of Service Members who died while serving on active duty, but not as a result of hostile action.

Both pins are powerful symbols of remembrance, but the Gold Star Lapel Button specifically denotes death during conflict or as a direct result of combat service.

When Suicide is the Cause of Death

At Soldiers’ Angels, we believe every fallen Service Member deserves to be remembered and every grieving family deserves support, no matter the cause. Suicide is not a sign of weakness—it’s a consequence of war and service, and those we lose to it should be honored with the same reverence as those lost on the battlefield.

While this is a hotly debated topic, Gold Stars are not awarded in the case of suicide. Currently, the organization TAPS is working towards changing that rule.

Honoring the Gold Star Legacy

Gold Star Families live with the weight of unimaginable sacrifice. They are bound together not only by grief, but by pride in the bravery and service of their loved ones. At Soldiers’ Angels, we are committed to supporting Gold Star Families through acts of compassion and remembrance by sending cards and other items during difficult anniversaries.

Interested in supporting Military families, Veterans, and Service Members by sending cards? Join us!

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