The term Gold Star family is a modern reference that comes from the Service Flag. These flags/banners were first flown by families during World War I. The flag included a blue star for every immediate family member serving in the armed forces of the United States, during any period of war or hostilities in which the armed forces of the United States were engaged. If that loved one died, the blue star was replaced by a gold star. This allowed members of the community to know the price that the family had paid in the cause of freedom.
The United States began observing Gold Star Mother's Day on the last Sunday of September, in 1936. The Gold Star Wives was formed before the end of World War II. The Gold Star Lapel Button was established in August 1947.
Today, the nation recognizes the sacrifice that all Gold Star Family members make when a father, mother, brother, sister, son, daughter, or other loved one dies in the service to the nation. Gold Star Mother's and Family's Day is the last Sunday of September and Gold Star Spouses Day is April 5th. The strength of our nation is our Army, the strength of our Army is our Soldiers; the strength of our Soldiers is our families. The Army recognizes that no one has given more for the nation than the families of our Fallen.
The LONG RANGE RECONNAISSANCE ASSOCIATION (LRRA) honors the Families of our Fallen.
*Ms. Bridget Madison - Mother of SPC Spencer Karol, KIA Iraq; 10/6/2003
We carefully validate all applications to ensure only those who have served honorably in LRRP, LRP, or LRS units are approved. Please be prepared to provide the Full Name and Membership Number of an LRRA Sponsor or
Verifiable Proof of Service in a LRRP, LRP, or LRS Unit.
Join the LRRA to reconnect with your LRRP, LRP, and LRS Brothers and support our efforts to
ensure the History and Legacy of our units, Mission, and Heritage are not lost or forgotten
Membership Application
Mailing Address:
LONG RANGE RECONNAISSANCE ASSOCIATION
9377 N 300 W Lake Village, IN 46349
Officer Email Contact Data
President
- Tim Speece;
President@lrra2015.org
Vice President - Matt Mackert;
Vicepresident@lrra2015.org
Quartermaster & Sergeant At Arms - Carl Witkowski;