Blue Star Banner ~ Blue Star Service Flag
The Blue Star Flag was created in 1917. It was hung in windows of homes to denote that a member of the family was serving in the armed forces.
The Blue Star Flag was designed and patented by World War I Army Capt. Robert L. Queissner of the 5th Ohio Infantry who had two sons serving on the front line. This flag quickly became the unofficial symbol of a child in service.
On Sept. 24, 1917, an Ohio congressman read the following into the Congressional Record: “…The mayor of Cleveland, the Chamber of Commerce and the governor of Ohio have adopted this service flag. The world should know of those who give so much for liberty. The dearest thing in all the world to a father and mother -- their children."
The number of stars designate the number of children serving in the military. During WWII, one of the most famous Blue Star Banners was that of the Sullivan Family in Waterloo, Iowa. The banner had five stars for the five sons serving in the Navy.
The blue star designates hope and pride.
Flying the Blue Star Service Banner shows the community that your family is sacrificing for the welfare and protection of the country with a member of your family proudly serving in the United States Armed Forces.
With gratitude to all of the Blue Star Families in our country... you are in our thoughts and prayers.
If you are a member of a Blue Star Family and you want to get a banner, there are many resources, including The American Legion http://emblem.legion.org/AmericanLegn/dept.asp?mscssid=TWS58WM6WDMU9J2KPSHAPA1NT9B04FN2&Gift=false&GiftID=&dept_id=152
Blue Star Mothers http://gazingattheflag.blogspot.com/2007/05/blue-star-mothers-of-america.html
Gold Star Banner http://gazingattheflag.blogspot.com/2007/05/gold-star-banner-gold-star-service-flag.html
5 comments:
We have one proudly hanging in our window at home.
Thanks for putting out the word!
-Leo-
And, Leo, we keep your son in our prayers!!
We fly ours with pride as well.
Three years ago, when my daughter first went into the Army, a close friend of mine hand-sewed a Blue Star Banner for me. At the time, I didn't realize what it was for, but after she explained it to me and after it has hung in my window these three years, it has become one of my most prized possessions.
My daughter has just re-enlisted. Looks like it will proudly hang for at least another three years.
Heidi's Mom
Snooper and Heidi's Mom -
our love and prayers are with your kids!
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