SE Illinois News

Illinois State Representative Patrick Windhorst (R) commemorated Gold Star Spouses Day in a Facebook post published on April 5.

"Today we recognize the loved ones of our nation’s fallen heroes and honor their shared service and sacrifice for our country," Windhorst wrote. "God bless Gold Star Spouses."

Windhorst is a Metropolis resident who was first elected to represent Illinois' 117th District in the State House of Representatives in 2018. His legislative experience includes serving on the Restorative Justice Committee and the Judiciary-Criminal Committee.

According to veteran.com, Gold Star Spouses Day got its start in 1936, when it was known as "Gold Star Mother's Day" and observed on the last Sunday in September. A "Gold Star Wives" organization was established prior to the end of WWII, and the lapel button tradition started in 1947. The first "Gold Star Wives Day" was celebrated in December 2010, with the U.S. Senate codifying it into law two years later and setting it to be observed every April 5. Later guidance changed the recognition to make it more gender inclusive.

"This recognition of the sacrifices made by military spouses is a memorial for the fallen, a remembrance day for the survivors, and an appreciation for those who are sometimes in danger of being overlooked for their support and service to the country," the article reads.

The National Veterans Memorial Museum states that a Gold Star Family is one which has lost a family member in the line of duty during their military service. The museum also has a collection of resources for Gold Star Families and Spouses.

According to the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs, there are currently 333 Gold Star families residing in the state. The Department honors said families and individuals year-round and offers multiple support programs and ceremonies including Veterans and Gold Star Families Days at the Springfield and DuQuoin State Fairs, Gold Star Families Weekend and the Gold Star Christmas Tree Lighting. The Department can also connect Gold Star Families and Spouses with other supportive resources.