Organizations
There are many important organizations around the country that do an amazing job supporting Gold Star Families and we would like to give them a “shout out” wherever possible. Our goal is to build awareness and offer support to these groups through the Gold Star Services Network so please check them out here.
Wreaths Across America
Wreaths Across America is a nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring U.S. veterans by placing wreaths on their graves during annual ceremonies each December. Their mission encompasses three core values: Remember the fallen, Honor those who serve, and Teach the next generation the value of freedom. Through the efforts of volunteers nationwide, they coordinate wreath-laying events at over 4,900 locations across all 50 states, at sea, and abroad. Beyond these ceremonies, Wreaths Across America engages in educational initiatives to instill appreciation for veterans' sacrifices among younger generations.
Honor and Remember
Honor and Remember is a nonprofit organization dedicated to perpetually recognizing the sacrifice of America's military fallen heroes and their families. Their mission encompasses four key objectives: establishing a tangible national symbol of remembrance, educating the public about the sacrifices made by military personnel, presenting personalized Honor and Remember flags to families of the fallen, and providing comfort to grieving families through various programs and events. By fostering a culture of appreciation and remembrance, Honor and Remember ensures that the legacies of those who gave their lives in service to the United States are never forgotten.
Gold Star Mothers New Jersey
The American Gold Star Mothers Department of New Jersey is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting mothers who have lost children during active-duty military service, as a result of such service, or whose children are missing in action. Affiliated with the national American Gold Star Mothers, Inc., based in Washington, D.C., the New Jersey chapter focuses on fostering a supportive community where members find strength through fellowship. Their mission includes honoring the memory of their sons and daughters by assisting veterans, active-duty military personnel, their families, and engaging in community service initiatives. They believe that building a strong and supportive community is key to helping veterans thrive.
NJ Run for the Fallen
The New Jersey Run for the Fallen is an organization of military runners and support crew whose mission is to honor every New Jersey service member who has died as a result of serving during the War on Terror, including Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and New Dawn. Each September, participants run across New Jersey, dedicating each mile to a fallen hero. At each mile marker, known as a "Hero Marker," runners stop to present a flag and a personalized biographical card to waiting family members and friends, paying homage to the service member's life and their family's sacrifice. This annual event raises awareness of the lives of those who fought and died, rejuvenates their memories, supports organizations aiding the families of the fallen, and aids in the healing process for New Jersey residents affected by the war.
Gold Star Wives of America
Gold Star Wives of America, Inc. is a Congressionally chartered nonprofit service organization dedicated to providing support to surviving spouses and children of U.S. military service members who lost their lives due to military service. Founded in 1945, the organization offers resources, advocacy, and a community to help members navigate the challenges of loss and ensure they receive the benefits and recognition they deserve. Through partnerships with various organizations and participation in commemorative events, Gold Star Wives honors the legacy of fallen service members and fosters a network of support among military survivors.
The National Gold Star Family Registry
The Gold Star Family Registry is a comprehensive online database dedicated to honoring U.S. military personnel who have died in combat since World War II. Established by Military Families United, a nonprofit organization, the Registry allows family members and friends to create personalized tributes, ensuring that the stories of these fallen heroes are preserved and shared. By providing educational resources and personal accounts, the Registry serves as a 21st-century memorial, accessible to all who wish to remember and honor the sacrifices made by these brave individuals.