Understanding Green Star Families
As a Gold Star Mother, I am always interested in learning about organizations and initiatives that support military families. Recently, I learned about Green Star Families and realized that many people may not be familiar with the Green Star.
While Gold Star and Green Star families are recognized under different circumstances, both communities share a common understanding: the lasting impact military service can have on families and the importance of ensuring that no family feels forgotten.
What Is a Gold Star Family?
Gold Star recognition honors the families of service members who died under qualifying circumstances recognized by the Department of Defense.
The Gold Star tradition dates back to World War I and serves as a symbol of sacrifice, remembrance, and gratitude for those who gave their lives in service to our nation.
American Gold Star Mothers was founded in 1928 by mothers whose children died while serving in the Armed Forces. For nearly a century, our organization has honored their legacies through remembrance, service, advocacy, and support of military and veteran communities.
What Is a Green Star Family?
Green Star recognition is focused on the families of veterans lost to suicide.
The Green Star movement was created to provide visibility, support, and recognition for families whose lives have been forever changed by the loss of a veteran to suicide. Many of these families have expressed feelings of isolation and uncertainty about where they fit within the broader military community.
Green Star recognition seeks to ensure those families know they are not alone and that their loved ones are remembered.
Different Recognition, Shared Purpose
Gold Star and Green Star recognition serve different communities and different circumstances.
One does not replace the other, nor does one diminish the sacrifices recognized by the other.
Both represent families whose lives were forever changed by military service and both seek to ensure that those families are seen, supported, and remembered.
Why This Matters
One of the lessons many grieving families learn is that loss can often feel invisible once the ceremonies end and the public attention fades.
Whether a family is Gold Star, Green Star, Blue Star, or simply supporting a loved one who has served, every family carries a story. Taking the time to learn about one another's experiences helps build understanding, compassion, and stronger military communities.
Learn More
To learn more about Green Star Families and their mission, visit Green Star Families of America FB page, Greenstarfamilies.org and follow their work supporting families impacted by veteran suicide.
At the Department of Georgia American Gold Star Mothers, we believe remembrance begins with understanding—and that no military family should ever feel unseen.
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