American Gold Star Mothers, Inc.
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American Gold Star Mothers 
​News & Blog

Keep up with News and Current Events with AGSM

Togetherness Tuesday

11/18/2025

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Towson University Military Appreciation Football Game Towson, Maryland November 8, 2025

​Department: Martyland/Delaware
Chapter: Maryland
Maryland Gold Star Mothers Tracy Miller, Joy Goode, and Khadidja Keita, along with their guests, attended Towson University’s Military Appreciation Football Game on Saturday, November 8, 2025. The event honored the Fallen Tigers:
• Sergeant Major Wardell Turner, whose legacy lives on through the Wardell Turner Scholarship Endowment
​• Major Robert Marchanti, honored through the Robert J. Marchanti Endowed Scholarship
• First Lieutenant James Saxon, remembered through the James R. Saxon Memorial Scholarship
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​All three men were Towson University student-athletes who later made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the United States Military. Following the Fallen Tigers Scholarship Reception, Gold Star Families enjoyed the football game from The Minnegan Room at Johnny Unitas Stadium as the Towson Tigers hosted the Villanova Wildcats. Unfortunately, the Tigers fell to the Wildcats, but it remained a meaningful day of remembrance and honor for our heroes.

Dedication of Gold Star Plaque

​Department: New Mexico
Chapter: Albuquerque
On November 12, 2025, a Gold Star Marker was placed and dedicated in Albuquerque beside the Blue Star Marker, at the Albuquerque Garden Center. Pictured at the ceremony are GEN Jameson Herrera (Ret) Secretary of the Department of Veteran Services for NM, Gold Star Mother Shirley Tetreault and Gold Star Mother Jo Ann Zembiec and Tom Tozier, VA Representative for the City of Albuquerque. Shirley and Jo Ann are members of AGSM Albuquerque Chapter. Shirley is the State Coordinator for the Blue and Gold Plaques and Markers. The Albuquerque Chapter has helped sponsor several Gold Star Markers and plaques across New Mexico, helping to bring awareness of Gold Star Mothers and Families.
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Mission Monday

11/17/2025

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Adaptive Athletics Foundation of Maryland (AAFMD) 2nd Annual for Purpose Benefit Gala Edgewater, Maryland November 7, 2025

Department: Maryland/Delaware
Chapter: Maryland
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The AAFMD held their 2nd Annual for Purpose Benefit Gala on November 7, 2025 at the Yellowfin Steak & Fish House Restaurant in Edgewater, Maryland. The Gold Star Mothers Maryland Chapter, Inc was a Gold Sponsor. Donna Robinson and Janice Chance represented the Maryland Chapter. They were joined by Gold Star Step dad Charlton Chance. Also, attending the event was the top enlisted Marine at Marine Barracks Washington, DC, Sergeant Major Jimmy Richard Jr, and his wife. The evening included a delicious buffet dinner, music, silent auction, and speakers who shared powerful inspiring testimonies. John Edward Heath, retired U. S Marine, former professional athlete from Maryland and Founder/CEO of the AAFMD and his team sponsored this event. John highlighted accomplishments made during their first year. He also shared that the vital funds raised will be used “to expand and enhance programs for individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities, purchase support equipment, coaching, events, and resources needed to empower athletes of all abilities to compete, grow, and thrive. Together, we can continue breaking barriers and building a stronger, more inclusive community—one athlete at a time”. The event was well attended. It was an unforgettable evening in support of adaptive sports.

Winterhaven Homeless Veterans Stand Down VA Medical Center Washington, DC November 1, 2025

​Department: Maryland/Delaware
Chapter: Maryland
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The annual Winterhaven Homeless Veterans Stand Down was hosted at the Washington, DC VA Medical Center. The day-long event brought together VA employees, volunteers, and community partners to offer immediate assistance, services, and resources to unsheltered and at-risk Veterans throughout the District of Columbia, Northern Virginia, and areas of Maryland. Gold Star Mothers Janice Chance and Paula Davis volunteered and handed out coffee, tea, breakfast sandwiches, and donuts to the Veterans who stood in line waiting to go inside the event. They also helped serve lunch to the Veterans. DC VA Medical Center Social Workers and Peer Support Teams work with local shelters as well as traveling to local neighborhoods, identifying Veterans to pair with VA health care, benefits, and services, and local resources. The event demonstrates VA’s commitment to “Partner to End and Prevent Homelessness, One Veteran at a Time.” 30 participating federal, state, and local agencies and community organizations offered services. It was wonderful to see all the smiles on the Veterans' faces as they went from tent to tent, receiving coats, boots, socks, personal care kits, and other items. We look forward to volunteering in the future.
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Togetherness Tuesday

11/11/2025

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Christmas tree trimming

​Department: Florida/ Puerto Rico
Chapter: Tampa Bay
On 11/5/2025 we had several gold star moms and friends come together for our annual Christmas tree trimming.

Moms, Lorrie Fleming Department President of FL/PR, Jeanette Nazario department 2nd VP of FL/PR, Sue Miller department secretary, Sandy Miller department treasurer.
Gold star mothers helper’s Peppermint Patty Debbie and significant other Dan, who put the tree together and put the stars on the tree at the top. He used a ladder so the moms wouldn’t have to. They had a great day and much bonding.
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Tarrant County Texas Proclamation-September Gold Star Mothers Day September 28

​Department: Texas/Oklahoma
Chapter: North/West Chapter
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Carla Wicks, Cheree Barrett & Kristi Hughes attended the Tarrant County Commissioners Court on September 16, 2025 where they honored ours sons and presented each one of us with a Proclamation for Tarrant County Texas (Fort Worth Texas) to designate September 28, 2025 as Gold Star Mothers Day and September as Gold Star Families month.
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Veterans Day 2025

11/11/2025

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Veterans Day is an annual U.S. public holiday observed on November 11 to honor those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. It was originally called Armistice Day to commemorate the end of World War I, with the name changed to Veterans Day in 1954 to include all veterans.

Veterans Day is distinct from Memorial Day, a U.S. public holiday in May: Veterans Day commemorates the service of all U.S. veterans, while the older Memorial Day, which grew out of Civil War commemorations, specifically honors those who have died while in military service.  Another military holiday that also occurs in May, Armed Forces Day, honors those currently serving in the U.S. military. Additionally, Women Veterans Day is recognized by a growing number of U.S. states that specifically honor women who have served in the U.S. military.
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Happy 250th Birthday, Marines

11/10/2025

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Happy Birthday to the United States Marine Corps! The corps' official birthday is November 10, 1775, and it celebrates its legacy of honor, courage, and commitment on that date each year. This date honors the founding of the Continental Marines by the Second Continental Congress.
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Mission Monday

11/10/2025

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Shine and Serve at the "Warrior Walk" 2025

​Department: FL-PR
Chapter: Tampa Bay
AGSM, Inc. Tampa Bay Chapter member, Aileen Payne, knows what it means to serve and the unexpected blessings that often come back to you for serving others. Each year the "Warrior Walk" is held at beautiful Lake Hollingsworth, Lakeland , FL. Since 2008, Aileen has helped with the walk in one capacity or another, serving where needed most. Currently, she is the co-director of the “Warrior Walk”, attended by a thousand plus participants. In the photo, she helped set up the field of white crosses of the more than 400 Florida OIF and OEF Fallen Service members, including her own beloved son, USMC Cpl. Ronald R. Payne, JR, KIA May 5, 2004, OEF AFGH. Also volunteering alongside of her are the Mulberry HS, JROTC. Aileen’s own son, Ronnie, was a JROTC cadet at the very same HS back in 1998 and 1999. Truly a blessing and honor for Aileen to be able to volunteer with them. Also serving at the “Warrior Walk” with Aileen are AGSM, Inc. Dept of FL-PR President, Lorrie Fleming, and past AGSM, Inc. Dept President, Michele Carey. Way to "shine and serve” AGSM, Inc. Tampa Bay Members.
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Centennial Sunday

11/9/2025

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Did you know....

Becky Christmas
Did you know that Gold Star Mothers were instrumental in establishing the Tomb of the Unknown in Arlington National Cemetery? Many of the WWI Allied countries had paid tribute to an unidentified soldier who gave his life in WWI in this similar way. America followed this lead but the Gold Star Mothers helped make it happen. On the morning of November 11, 1921, the casket of the Unknown Soldier left the Capitol Rotunda and was taken to the Memorial Amphitheater in Arlington National Cemetery. Following a solemn ceremony, the coffin was committed to the sarcophagus.
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What our Moms are doing Wednesday

11/5/2025

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2025 VAVS Annual Joint Review, in good standing with our VAHCS

​Department: FL-PR
Chapter: Tampa Bay
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Two local chapters of AGSM, Inc., the Gulf Coast and the Tampa Bay Chapters, teamed up and attended their 2025 VAVS/CDCE Annual Joint Review, October 8. As VAVS Representatives and Deputy Representatives, this is an important part of our commitment to serving veterans as members of the VAVS/CDCE program within the VA Health Care System. Jean Ufallusy and Tiphane Downs, both members of the Gulf Coast Chapter and Toni Gross, Tampa Bay Chapter, met with VAVS/CDCE Chief Staff, Mr. Navarro, to review the AJR for their volunteerism at James A. Haley VA Hospital, Tampa, FL. I'm quoting Mr. Navarro, "AGSM, Inc. CRUSHED the American Legion, VFW, and DAR with our 2025 numbers". While this is not a competition, it does go to show that we AGSM, Inc. members can make an impact in the lives of our veterans, as we faithfully serve at our VA Hospitals, CBOCs and Fisher Houses. We were pleasantly surprised with his comment. In this photo, VAVS/CDCE Chief Staff, Mr. Navarro is presenting AGSM, Inc. members Jean and Tiphane with VAVS service pins. Gulf Coast and Tampa Bay chapters team up together often to serve bc we are focused on our mission...HONORING THROUGH SERVICE"

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Togetherness Tuesday

11/4/2025

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Gold Star Family Byway Dedication October 27, 2025 Allegany, NY

​Department: New York
Chapter: WNY South Buffalo Chapter 26
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The Enchanted Mountain Garden Club of Allegany, NY held a dedication ceremony on Saturday, October 27, 2025. American Gold Star Mothers, Inc., members of the WNY South Buffalo Chapter 26 and New York Department President Dorothy Reid were in attendance. GSM Candy Clemens worked for nearly two years with the Enchanted Mountain Garden Club to make the marker a reality. To honor the service members who gave the ultimate sacrifice and the families who carry on their loved ones’ legacies. The marker was placed in the Allegany Veterans Memorial Park. A reception was held at the Allegany American Legion following the ceremony.
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Blue Star Mothers New York 7 15th Anniversary Celebration Gala Saturday, September 20, 2025

​Department: New York
Chapter: WNY South Buffalo Chapter 26
Department President Dorothy Reid along with members of the WNY South Buffalo Chapter 26 Cathy MacFarland, husband Bill, Cany Clemens, Jeanne Brown, Holly Baker and husband Greg, were in attendance for the Blue Star Mothers NY Chapter 7 15th Anniversary Gala held September 20, 2025. Cathy MacFarland was honored as a Charter Member of Blue Star Mothers Chapter 7 and remains a member with her son James serving in the US Navy. She joined AGSM South Bufffalo Chapter 26 after the loss of her son Albert in 2009 while serving in the US Army. The Gala was well attended by family, friends and the community. Chapter President noted the support of many local sponsors, companies and organizations through the past, present and look forward to the future. All proceeds from the event will benefit the ongoing packing events for our deployed heroes.
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Women in Defense (WID) Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon Fundraiser Vandiver Inn Havre de Grace, Maryland October 23, 2025

​Department: Maryland/Delaware
Chapter: Maryland
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Women in Defense (WID), Mid- Atlantic Chapter had their Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon Fundraiser at the Vandiver Inn in Havre de Grace, Maryland on October 23, 2025. Gold Star mothers Janice Chance, Synthia Carter, Stephanie White, Donna Robinson and guest Earl Ruff attended this event as The Gold Star Mothers Maryland Chapter were Gold Sponsors and have been supporting this fundraiser for five years. Corporate sponsorships and raffles for beautifully wrapped theme baskets helped raise funds for the Upper Chesapeake Health Cancer Life Net organization that supports breast cancer survivors and their families. The keynote speaker was Dr. Julie Woods who works at the Department of Medical Oncology UM Upper Chesapeake Kaufman Cancer Center. She provided an informative presentation about detecting breast cancer and health-focused treatments that offer hope and healing to patients. Mrs. Karen Streett, RN shared her personal breast cancer story. Gold Star Mothers Janice Chance and Donna Robinson won lovely Raffle Baskets. The WID Mid-Atlantic Chapter was established to provide women a formal environment for professional growth through networking, education and career development. Gold Star Mothers Maryland Chapter look forward to supporting WID and their future events.

Gold Star Family Monument Norfolk VA

​Department: Virginia
Chapter: Hampton Roads
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The Woody Williams Foundation erected a 2-panel Gold Star Family Monument in Norfolk, Virginia. Present were representatives from the City of Norfolk and the Woody Williams Foundation.

​Gold Star Moms present left to right: Mary Strong, Mona Gunn and Terri Campbell, 1st VP.
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White House Gold Star Families Reception Washington, DC September 29, 2025

​Department: Maryland/Delaware
Chapter: Maryland
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On September 29, 2025, President and Mrs. Trump commemorated Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day by hosting a Gold Star families Reception at the White House. A select number of families from across the United States were invited to join him, a few of his cabinet level officials, and the Joint Chiefs. In attendance from the Maryland Gold Star Mothers Chapter were Donna Robinson and Janice Chance. Janice was given the honor to share about her family’s fallen hero Captain Jesse Melton III USMC, (KIA Afghanistan on 9/9/2008), and what it means to her to be a gold star family member. Prior to Janice’s message, President Trump welcomed the Gold Star families and gave a heartwarming message honoring our country’s fallen heroes and the families for their profound sacrifice. Janice shared about the power of their faith in God, and the call to continue our heroes’ legacy through service and outreach. Janice was joined by her husband (stepdad) Charlton Chance, daughter Jenine Melton U.S. Army Iraq veteran, son Joshua Melton, daughter in law Peggy Melton, special friends and supporters Melody Knox, Earl Ruff, Jr., (Commandant US Marine Corp League Baltimore Detachment), and Cindy McGrew, (CEO and founder Operation Second Chance). Mrs. McGrew not only graced the family members with her presence, but her organization also provided limousine transportation. After Janice’s message, each Gold Star family stood when their hero’s name was read, and a candle was lit in their hero’s honor. Following the ceremony and dessert reception each family received a gift bag that contained the candle that was lit in memory of their hero, a special Presidential Gold Star Challenge coin, along with other gifts - symbols of gratitude and remembrance.

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Mission Monday

11/3/2025

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Keeping NY Veterans warm

​Department: NY
Chapter: Chapter 15
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Chapter 15 Syracuse NY members: presented Sweatpants, Sweatshirts, boxer shorts, combs, toothpaste, toothbrushes and coloring books with coloring pencils. And special homemade Veterans Day cards from Students of Baldwinsville Middle School. Helping to keep our Women and Men Veterans warm during the winter months.

Pictured: Tammy Bell (AGSM), Becky Ross (VA CDCE volunteer manage), Ann Brothers (AGSM) and Lorie Schneider (AGSM)

American Red Cross Walter Reed National Military Medical Center Children’s Wish List September 4, 2025

​Department: Maryland/Delaware
Chapter: MD
At the request of Hanna Peters, Senior Regional Program Specialist at the American Red Cross, Maryland Gold Star Mothers donated towards the Children’s Wish List at Walter Reed that included several toys that filled a utility cart! It is always a pleasure to not only support our military members, but also their families during their stay away from home.
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Fabulous Fisher House Day

​Department: FL-PR
Chapter: Tampa Bay
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Each and every Wednesday, 12 years now, at the Fisher Houses at James A. Haley VA Hospital, Tampa, FL, AGSM, Inc. mothers fulfill their mission to serve others. Sometimes, it's just the members of the Tampa Bay chapter, other times, 2 local chapters, Gulf Coast and Tampa Bay, team up to serve the fragile families lodging at the Fisher Houses as happened on a recent Wednesday. A local quilter, Debra, was invited to join and experience first hand what goes on at the Fisher House. Not only did Debra, quilter extraordinaire, accept the invitation, she brought 19 quilts to present to the FH families. AGSM, Inc. Gulf Coast, Tiphane Downs, assisted Debra with the quilts, in the FH dining room. One individual, a GS family member, that was residing at the FH, selected a beautiful quilt from the table. The motto of the Fisher House is, A FAMILES LOVE IS GOOD MEDICINE", that day AGSM mothers brought along a dose of joy!
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Armed Forces YMCA Food Pantry donation

​Department: Virginia
Chapter: Hampton Roads
Chapter donated over $1000 worth of food and gift cards to the Armed Forces YMCA Food Pantry in Virginia Beach, VA. This was especially impactful due to the government shutdown and limited funds our active duty service members have.

​Pictured l to r: Terri Campbell-1st VP, Maggie Sticklen-2nd VP and Angela Bell-Chapter President and Dept. President.
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​American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. Headquarters
2128 Leroy Place NW
Washington, D.C. 20008
​(202) 265-0991
[email protected]


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  • AGSM
    • History
    • FAQ
    • The Gold Star Mother Newsletter
    • Members Only >
      • Memorandums of Understanding
    • Our Impact >
      • Military Communities
      • Gold Star Mothers and Families
    • Get Involved
    • Grant Opportunities
    • Restrictions on Political Activity
    • 990/Compliance Disclosures
  • The AGSM Store
    • 2025 White House Ornament
    • Books
    • New Logo Products
    • ASGM logo items
    • 2025 Dues
    • Pins
    • AGSM Jewelry
    • Coins
    • Logo Apparel - Valley Athletic
    • Supplies
    • Partner Products
  • Events & Projects
    • Centennial
    • 2025 Events >
      • Gold Star Weekend 2025
      • Veteran's Last Patrol 2025
      • 2025 Memorial Day >
        • Memorial Day Week 2025 Photos
      • 2025 National Convention >
        • 2025 Veterans Day
        • 2025 National Convention Schedule
        • 2025 National Convention Photos
      • 2025 Vietnam Veterans Memorial Day
      • 2025 Chapel of the Four Chaplains
      • 2025 White Rose Ball
    • 2024 Events >
      • Gold Star Mothers Weekend >
        • 2024 Gold Star Mothers Weekend Photos
      • Veterans Day 2024
      • Wreaths Across America 2024
      • Veteran's Last Patrol
      • Operation Gratitude
  • News & Blog
  • Contact US
    • Membership >
      • Chapters & Departments
      • Contact Membership
    • Contact the National President
    • Contact the National Chaplain
  • Our Partners
    • Wreaths Across America Radio
    • Wreaths Across America
    • Society of the Honor Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
    • Blue Star Mothers of America
    • Veterans Last Patrol
    • National AMVETS Riders