LANSING, MI -- Governor Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed September 25, 2022 as Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day to honor and recognize the sacrifice that all Gold Star mothers and families make when a father, mother, brother, sister, son, daughter or spouse dies in active service to our nation. 

"On Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day, we recognize the families who lost a loved one in uniform," said Governor Whitmer. "Michiganders will always remember our heroes and we will work together to support our Gold Star mothers and families. Our state and our nation are indebted to our men and women in uniform and their families, and we are safer and stronger because of their selfless service and sacrifices." 

In 1936, the 74th Congress declared, “the last Sunday in September shall hereafter be designated and known as ‘Gold Star Mother’s Day,’ and it shall be the duty of the President to request its observance as provided for in this resolution.” Continuing the long-held tradition, in 2016, President Barack Obama proclaimed that September 25, 2016 was to be known as Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day.  

The Gold Star symbol originated during World War I as families hung banners with blue stars to represent an immediate family member serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. The blue star was replaced with a gold star to signify a family member who died in combat. 

The surviving families of Michigan’s fallen service members deserve the respect and honor that this day commemorates. Much like Memorial Day and Veterans Day, Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day is a chance to pay tribute and to acknowledge the losses of our servicemen and women and ensure that their families are not forgotten.