National Gold Star Families Day

The Last Sunday of every September is designated National Gold Star Mothers, Fathers, and Families Day. On September 29th, Blue Star Mothers of Northeast La, held a Blue to Gold program to Honor the families of Fallen Heroes from across North Louisiana.
From the Farmerville, Dubach, Ruston areas we were proud to have with us GS Jon Eric Bowman’ family, GS Dana Zimek’s family, and GS John “Jack” Lindsey’s family. Also honoring her loved one Pamela Fritz of Spencer for GS Jacob Fritz.
It was a beautiful evening of fall flowers and tables decorated in White and Gold. Blue Star Mothers gave each family member a custom made charm designed by Gold Star Aunt Pamela Fritz, and Matt and Nora Parker presented each lady there with a beautiful yellow rose. The Event was held at Tennison Hall, inside First Baptist Church, West Monroe. As each family came in they were greeted by Blue Star Mothers and by local Teen Beauty Queens Miss Alayna Johnson and Miss Ainsley Doles. The Gold Star Mothers received beautiful corsages donated by Blue Star mom and dad, Dr. Bob and Michelle Bell. West Monroe Mayor Staci Mitchell issued a Proclamation that the day would be declared Gold Star Mother, Father, and Family’s day in West Monroe. Each family member received an official copy of the Declaration. Outback catered the delicious dinner under the direction of Shelia Taylor. And Christy Johnson with Copsicles provided the yummy cheesecake. Maydaze Foundation and Patriot Guard Riders, John and Teri Smith honored the guests by placing American flags and Branch Services flags outside the entrance. Layne Smith with Our H.O.M.E. was on hand to visit with the Gold Star families.
The Special Guest Speaker for the evening was noted favorite, local author and inspirational speaker Shellie Tomlinson. She had everyone laughing and feeling good about themselves and her message to the room was that Life can be, and is hard, but we get through it. And that we aren’t alone when we go through these hard times. It was uplifting. Sponsor Awards and Certificates of Appreciation were handed out. Two Quilts of Honor were presented from Blue and Gold Star Mothers to VFW Post 1809 leadership, Commander Chris LeGuin and Quartermaster Stepheni LeGuin, for all they do for both groups . These quilts were made by Mrs. Fredna McBride. Of the 72 in attendance, 48 Gold Star Family members attended, coming from all over North Louisiana; Greenwood, Haughton, Mansfield, Haynesville, Dubach, Ruston, Monroe, West Monroe, Winnsboro.
Chase V. E.T.S. Group was on hand and volunteered under the direction of Melodi Merritt, they were all over helping the event go smoothly. Photography provided by Blue Star mom Taffy Higdon.
Other Sponsors who helped make this event a success were
Central Electric, Ouachita Regional Veteran’s Association, Northeast Louisiana Veteran’s Association, and The Animal Hospital in West Monroe.