Saluting Gold Star Spouses
Gold Star Spouses Day is a solemn but important day of remembrance and recognition observed on April 5 each year. It is a day dedicated to honoring the spouses of military members who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country.
Gold Star Spouses Day has a rich history dating back to the aftermath of World War I, when families of military members would display service flags featuring a blue star for each family member serving in the armed forces. If a service member died in combat, the blue star was replaced with a gold star, symbolizing the ultimate sacrifice.
In 2010, Congress designated April 5th as Gold Star Spouses Day to recognize and honor the spouses of fallen service members. The loss of a spouse in the line of duty brings forth incomprehensible grief and life altering challenges for a Gold Star Spouse. Their journey is marked by perseverance, strength, and the need to navigate a new reality while continuing to preserve the memory of their loved ones.
Through shared experiences, Gold Star Spouses form a community of support and understanding. They offer each other comfort, guidance, and strength by creating a network of resilience and camaraderie that sustains them through this challenging journey.
Gold Star Spouses Day serves as a reminder that our nation stands with Gold Star Spouses by offering support, gratitude and remembrance. Through commemorating this day, we strive to honor the memory of fallen service members, while also acknowledging the strength and courage exhibited by their surviving spouses.
The Long-Term Assistance Program is a permanent resource for survivors, committed to providing them with sustained, quality assistance from the Marine Corps. We vow to remember the fallen and honor the continuing sacrifices of Gold Star Spouses and all survivors of our beloved Marines. If you have questions or need assistance, the Long-Term Assistance Program can be reached at ltap@usmc.mil or call 1-866-210-3421 ext.