All That Glitters

As I stood to play the National Anthem, the glitter of gold caught my eye in the darkness of the community center. I saw the familiar Marine Corps League coats and hats, the usual sprinkling of military uniforms, and the miniature medals pinned to lapels, but what caught my eye was something not often seen, even at our concerts.

As the first notes of the anthem ring out into the cavernous hall, the audience begins to stand, some quickly, some with more effort required. Two elderly women, one at either end of the front row, were dressed in white suits and white garrison caps, the gold pins catching both the light and my eye. One rose gracefully to her feet, while the nearer one sat motionless, briefly. Tears sprang to my eyes as I watched her try to stand, struggling painfully to come to her feet, the gentleman next to her seemingly oblivious to her hand stretched in his direction for support. She stood proudly, as tall as she was able, sinking slowly to her chair only when the audience exploded in applause at the end.

These two women are Gold Star Mothers, members of an organization whose origins date back to World War I, becoming an official national organization in 1928. Gold Star Mothers have each lost a son or daughter in service to the United States. Historically, Gold Star Mothers have been a support network, reaching out to veterans by volunteering in hospitals and anywhere they might be needed. Once 30,000 members strong following World War II, membership has decreased to just over 900 members nationwide.

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