Blue Star Mothers of America

On January 22,1942 the Flint News Advertiser printed a coupon asking Mothers of serviceman to return the coupon after filling it out. The following February 1st 300 mothers met in the Durant Hotel, in Flint Michigan. Captain George H. Maines, who had conceived the idea for this group, acted as the chair of this first meeting. It was decided that after receiving 1000 responses from the ad to form a permanent organization.

On February 6th the organization was reported on Congressional record. Chapters then formed in Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, New York, Pennsylvania, Oregon, California, Iowa and Washington. In June of 1960 the organization was chartered by congress.

Mothers volunteered throughout the tough times of World War II. They worked in hospitals, train stations, packed care packages for soldiers and were an working part of homeland security during times our time of war. The organization waned in size over the years but has held together by mothers showing pride in both their children and country. In recent times we have began to grow in strength. Being attacked on our own soil has once again started mothers hanging flags in their windows at home proclaiming pride in the fact that we have children protecting our freedom during at time of war.

Our organization not only provides support for active duty service personnel, promotes patriotism, assists Veterans organizations, and are available to assist in homeland volunteer efforts to help our country remain strong.

While membership is for Mothers of active or honorably discharged members of the Army, Air Force, Marines, Navy, Coast Guard, National Guard, Reserve Units and Merchant Marines, there is a branch for Dads and an Associate membership for family members and friends.

Blue Star Mothers site: http://www.bluestarmothers.org

To join Blue Star Mothers: http://www.bluestarmothers.org/documents/Membership_Application_R3.pdf

This post is dedicated to all of the Blue Star Moms and Dads and to my Blue Star friends. We keep you in our thoughts and prayers.

Heidi's Mom - http://heidis-mom.blogspot.com
Yankeemom - http://www.yankeemom.com
Leo - http://psycmeistr.blogspot.com/
Snooper - http://takeourcountryback.townhall.com
David - http://davidjeffers.thevanguard.org/

Pictures and History reprinted with permission of the Blue Star Mothers of America - Thank you!