The Blue Star Banner

The Blue Star Banner
(by R.P.Edwards)

Silent, pensive, star of blue
A love, a distance, a hero…true
Guarding, fighting…in our place
A nation’s hands, and freedom’s face
O turn and see the courage there
The banner hung with tender care
And then consider…the life you hold
Then pray for stars…of blue…and gold

I’ve seen them from time to time. A simple decoration. A modest testimony in the window. I had known (from somewhere) that they had to do with the military. But now my knowledge has increased…and my ignorance lessened (if ever so slightly). It’s called the Blue Star Service Banner, and it consists of a blue star in a field of white, enclosed by a red border. Birthed during World War I, this simply adorned cloth means that a member of the family is serving in the military. It means that a son or daughter, a father or mother, is in a most necessary--and often dangerous-- place for those of us who cherish freedom. It is a testimony of sacrifice. It is a representation of service, and selflessness, and a family surviving with a part of their very heart…beating on a distant shore.

As I was doing a little research on the “Blue Star” I happened upon an organization named, Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc. Here was a group founded to connect and support the many who have seen son or daughter step into the shoes of heroes. But, more than just a support group, they also educate as to the meaning behind the deeds.

Further research brought me to a “silver star” group which honors those who have been wounded. And another, significant and heart wrenching population is the “Gold Star” community. These have actually lost a loved one in their country‘s service. I couldn’t stay too long on these pages, for the cost…of the loss, was hard to fathom, and difficult to dwell on. And yet…each of us…from the acerbic academic to the freedom loving patriot; we all owe so much to those represented by the “stars.” So, the next time you see one, pause for a moment and recognize the worth. It is the worth of a nation.