Proclamation from Mayor Jerry Marco for Gold Star Spouses Day
WHEREAS, on April 5 of each year, our nation observes Gold Star Spouses Day to recognize the enduring sacrifice and resilience of the husbands and wives of United States service members who gave their lives in defense of our freedoms;
The term “Gold Star” originated during World War I, when families displayed service flags with a blue star for loved ones in active duty, and replaced it with a gold star to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice;
Gold Star Spouses embody courage, strength, and unwavering devotion, carrying forward the legacy of their fallen loved ones while continuing to serve their families, communities, and country;
April 5 commemorates the founding of the Gold Star Wives of America in 1945, which provides support, advocacy, and fellowship to surviving spouses of fallen service members;
It is fitting that we, as a grateful community, pause to honor and recognize the profound sacrifices made by Gold Star Spouses, who are included amongst the 1.7 million Americans whose lives have been forever affected by loss of a family member;
The City of Elkins joins communities across the nation in expressing our deepest gratitude and commitment to supporting Gold Star families. We will ensure they are never forgotten.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jerry A. Marco, Mayor of the City of Elkins, do hereby proclaim April 5, 2026, as Gold Star Spouses Day in Elkins, West Virginia, and encourage all residents to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies, remembrance, and acts of kindness, honoring the sacrifices of our fallen heroes and the loved ones they leave behind.
Jerry A. Marco
Mayor of Elkins
April 2, 2026
Read the official proclamation here
(Image of Arlington National Cemetery via Unsplash)
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