Elsie MannerowWritten and researched by Laura De Roo
In 1967, following graduation from Notre Dame High School in Harper Woods Michigan, and one year at Macomb Community College, their son, Paul David Mannerow enlisted in the Marine Corp. His tour in Vietnam began August 14, 1968. The following spring, May 10, 1969, Paul died in Quang Tri, Vietnam through hostile action that caused the helicopter he was in to crash. He had achieved the rank of Lance Corporal and was the recipient of two Purple Heart medals.
Due to age, Elsie had to give up driving three years ago. Her daughter and granddaughter help with getting groceries, putting meals in her freezer and getting her to appointments. Her friends still make sure she gets out to enjoy excursions and comradery. Elsie remains in very good health and continues to live in her pleasant, little apartment where she has lived for the last 23 years. On November 1st, 2025 Elsie celebrated her 100th birthday!
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Kentucky Chapter NewsA recent gathering at the Patton Museum just outside of Fort Knox. Pictured are Kentucky members: Karen Williamson, Cathy Mullins, Jamie Rauschenberger, and Kentucky President, Lynn Romans.  Several Kentucky Mothers attended the Woody Williams Legacy of Service Gala in Louisville, Kentucky. Pictures with Woody's famous three-wheeler, are Linda Dennis, Lynn Romans, and Cathy Mullins.  Honoring Gold Star Families at the state capitol of Kansas in TopekaDepartment: Kansas Chapter: Sunflower
NM Honor Guard AwardsDepartment: NM Chapter: Albuquerque Our NM Honor Guard provides training and competition for state-wide volunteer honor guards who provide services at veteran funerals. The Honor Guard has asked that the NM Gold Star Mothers provide six special awards to those achieving 75 honors. Two NM Gold Star Mothers presented the awards on 9/22/25. Pictured AGSM's are Kay Coleman and Shirley Tetreault.  Gold Star Mother's Day Ft. EustisDepartment: Virginia Chapter: Hampton Roads On Sunday September 28th Gold Star Mothers and Family Day was recognized at Ft. Eustis, Virginia. Old City BBQ catered the event with the USO providing fabulous desserts at the USO Building on base. Many Commanders, USO Volunteers, and guests showed up to a nice, shared luncheon with entertainment and games with goodies passed out to all. Pictured l to r: Barbara Newton, Laurie Miner and Robert Miner.  Veterans of Foreign War (VFW) Post 521 Auxiliary Gold Star Mother’s and family’s Day Ceremony Owings Mills, Maryland September 28, 2025Department: Maryland/Delaware Chapter: MD
Gold Star Mothers and Family’s Day at Mission BBQ Parkville, Maryland September 28, 2025Department: Maryland/Delaware Chapter: MD
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 | On Gold Star Families Day, Bridging Life held a luminary ceremony. Maryland Gold Star Mother Julie El-Taher spoke for a few minutes. Gold Star Mother and Father Lauren and Matt Seidler were also in attendance. Bikers without Borders performed a formation ride in honor of our fallen. The Carroll County Historical Society also provided names of soldiers from the Civil War, WWI, and WWII. Thank you to Kathy Barna and Gold Star Mother Alison Michalowski for organizing this solemn and moving event. Thank you to Mission BBQ for catering. |
Forgotten Heroes Burial
Department: New Mexico
Chapter: Albuquerque
Chapter: Albuquerque
| Since 2010 New Mexico has been providing dignified burials for Veterans whose remains have been unclaimed. On September 17, the cremains of thirty-five men and one woman were given dignified military burials. The Gold Star Mothers are always asked to ring the bell following the reading of each name. On the 17th, Karen Alexander and Becky Christmas were honored to participate in this very special service. |  |
Honor Flight Welcome Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) Baltimore, Maryland September 16, 2025
Department: Maryland/Delaware
Chapter: Maryland
Chapter: Maryland
  | Maryland Gold Star Mothers were invited to join the Honor Flight team in welcoming Vietnam, Korean War Era and other Veterans from Mid-Michigan to the BWI. Janice Chance represented the Maryland Chapter. As the Allegiant Plane arrived with our Hero veterans, they received a Water Salute from the Fire Department. Everyone in the waiting area cheered as they watched the salute and the plane taxi to the gate. There were 85 veterans accompanied by their guardians, paramedics, other support staff, and photographers. There were several women Hero veterans in the group. Also Included in the group were two members of the Tuskegee Airman Detroit Chapter. The Veterans and their guardians were greeted, thanked and saluted by the Honor Flight team, Janice and other volunteers for their selfless service and sacrifice. The Veterans, their guardians and the Honor Flight Director expressed their appreciation for the warm welcome that they received. The BWI Honor Flight team and Janice were able to spend a few minutes talking with the veterans, their guardians, and staff prior to them boarding their assigned bus. The Honor Flight team and Janice saluted and cheered for the veterans as their buses departed.  |
Donation of Television to Veterans Home Ben Atchley Veterans Home Knoxville, Tennessee September 20, 2025
Department: Tennessee
Chapter: Volunteer
Chapter: Volunteer
On September 20, 2025, the Volunteer Chapter of the Tennessee American Gold Star Mothers were blessed to be able to purchase a 75-inch smart television to the Ben Atchley Veterans Home. The veterans were so excited to see that they were getting a new television. The Volunteer Chapter looks forward to having more fun with the veterans at Ben Atchley.
Lone Sailor Awards Dinner National Building Museum September 9, 2025 Washington, DC
Department: Maryland/Delaware
Chapter: Maryland
Chapter: Maryland
The Annual Lone Sailor Awards Dinner, hosted by the United States Navy Memorial at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C., stands as a proud tradition to honor and celebrate the men and women of the Sea Services. On September 9, 2025, Maryland Gold Star Mothers Paula Davis, Basmattie Bishundat, Theresa Karlson, Stephanie White, and Virginia Gold Star Mother, Rose Duval, as well as other Gold Star guests attended this distinguished event. The Lone Sailor Awards embody the Navy Memorial’s mission: to honor, recognize, and celebrate the sacrifices and service of America’s sea service members. The 2025 honorees, The Honorable Chuck Sams, 19th Director of the National Park Service, and Admiral James G. Stavridis, USN (Ret.), 16th Allied Commander of NATO exemplified the core values of service, commitment, and leadership. Their contributions reflect the enduring spirit of dedication that strengthens America’s maritime interests and national defense. For the Maryland Gold Star Mothers, this event is not only a celebration of the Navy’s traditions but also a poignant reminder of their own loved ones’ service and sacrifice. Their presence at the Lone Sailor Awards connects the legacy of those who served with the ongoing story of resilience, honor, and remembrance. Together, these moments—past and present—illustrate how the Lone Sailor Awards Dinner is more than a ceremony. It is a bridge between history and legacy, between service members and their families, between sacrifice and honor. For the Gold Star Mothers, participation in these events is a profound testament to the enduring bond between the Navy and the families who have given so much. The recognition of leaders who embody courage, duty, and honor serves as a living reminder that the sacrifices of their children are not forgotten but forever woven into the fabric of the nation’s story.
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2025 American Red Cross Tiffany Circle Chairman’s Dinner Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium Washington, DC September 13, 2025
Department: Maryland/Delaware
Chapter: Maryland
Chapter: Maryland
On September 13, 2025, the Maryland Gold Star Mothers had the privilege of attending the American Red Cross Tiffany Circle Chairman’s Dinner in Washington, DC. This distinguished gathering brought together a community of women leaders committed to supporting and advancing the lifesaving mission of the American Red Cross. The evening was a heartfelt celebration of service, sacrifice, and leadership, with special recognition given to the men and women of the United States Armed Forces. Maryland Gold Star Mothers and their guests, including Basmattie Bishundat, Janice and Charlton Chance, Jenine Melton, Paula Davis, Joy and Greg Goode, Yvonne and Garry Green, Donna Robinson, guest Earl Ruff, Stephanie White, and guest Willis Bazin were deeply honored to be part of such a meaningful evening. The program featured two dynamic keynote speakers. Gail McGovern, Chairman, Board of Governors, American Red Cross, delivered an inspiring address that set the tone for the evening. She spoke passionately about the importance of service and leadership, and then led attendees in honoring America’s heroes in uniform. Her words were a reminder of the strength and dedication of those who protect our freedoms and embody the spirit of resilience. Following her remarks, Lieutenant General (Retired) Nadja West, 44th Surgeon General of the United States Army and the Highest-Ranking Woman Graduate of the United States Military Academy, captivated the audience with her powerful message. Her speech drew from her vast military experience. Lt. General West was the Army’s first black Surgeon General, as well as the Army’s first black woman to hold the rank of lieutenant general and the Army's highest-ranking woman to have graduated from the United States Military Academy. The evening concluded with lively entertainment provided by Felix and Fingers Dueling Pianos, a talented ensemble. Their performance brought attendees to the dance floor, filling the room with music, energy, and fellowship. The Tiffany Circle Chairman’s Dinner was more than a celebration—it was a testament to service, leadership, and community. With sincere gratitude, the Maryland Gold Star Mothers extend heartfelt thanks to the American Red Cross for its enduring mission and for including them in this extraordinary gathering.
AUSA 21st Annual Fisher House Gala Belcamp, Maryland September 20, 2025
Department: Maryland/Delaware
Chapter: Maryland
Chapter: Maryland
  | On September 20, 2025, Maryland Chapter Gold Star Mothers, Yvonne Green, Rosemarie Ceo, Joy Goode, Stephanie White and their guests attended the AUSA 21st Annual Fisher House Gala fundraiser. It was held at Water’s Edge Event Center in Belcamp, MD. The first gala was held at Fort Monmouth in New Jersey. garry On behalf of the Major General (MG) Harry Greene Aberdeen Chapter of AUSA, President Angela Sheldon, welcomed everyone to the Gala. Since 2004, the Monmouth and Aberdeen Communities have staged this event in support of the Fisher House Foundation. The Foundation raises funds that enable comfort homes to be built near major military and VA medical centers. There are currently 100 Fisher Homes, and since its inception, the Foundation has saved military and Veteran families an estimated $525 million in out-of-pocket costs for lodging and transportation for military and veteran’s families. Families stay at no cost while a loved one is receiving critical care. The AUSA Fundraiser committee selected “Red White and Blue Jean BBQ” as their theme this year; therefore, many of the attendees wore Western Cowboy attire. Guests also feasted on different foods that included delicious barbeque dishes from around the world as well as many finger foods and desserts. Guests were also entertained with great music. An auction was held along with raffle drawings for 35 Gift Baskets. The Maryland Gold Star Mothers Chapter donated two beautiful gift baskets. The two baskets were a “Stars and Stripes” Theme auction basket with a monetary value of $330 and a “Red White and Ready” Theme auction basket with a monetary value of $110 which were created by Maryland Gold Star Mothers, Julie El-Taher and Theresa Karlson. Attending the fundraiser was a wonderful way to support our Heroes and their families. Next year’s Fisher House Fundraiser event will be held on September 19, 2026 with a “Midnight in the Emerald City” theme. |
National POW/MIA Recognition Day – September 19, 2025. U.S. POW/MIA Recognition Day is observed on the third Friday of September, on September 19 this year, to recommit to full accountability to the families of the more than 80,000 veterans captured or still missing from wars that the United States has participated in.
The U.S. Air Force was established as its own branch of the military by Congress and President Henry S. Truman on September 18, 1947.
How to Celebrate the U.S. Air Force BirthdayThe U.S. Air Force birthday is more than just a time to reflect on the bravery and dedication of the men and women who serve — it's also an opportunity to actively show your support and appreciation.These events serve as a reminder of the U.S. Air Force’s enduring legacy of service, sacrifice, and technological innovation.
Here are a few ways we can honor their bravery and dedication on this special day:
How to Celebrate the U.S. Air Force BirthdayThe U.S. Air Force birthday is more than just a time to reflect on the bravery and dedication of the men and women who serve — it's also an opportunity to actively show your support and appreciation.These events serve as a reminder of the U.S. Air Force’s enduring legacy of service, sacrifice, and technological innovation.
Here are a few ways we can honor their bravery and dedication on this special day:
- Remembering Their Dedication: Recognize the tireless commitment of U.S. Air Force personnel who work around the clock to protect national airspace and maintain global security.
- Celebrating Their Sacrifice: Pay tribute to the sacrifices made by U.S. Air Force members and their families, who often endure long deployments and personal challenges to safeguard our freedoms.
- Acknowledging Their Technological Leadership: The U.S. Air Force has been at the forefront of aviation and space technology, playing a key role in advancements that extend far beyond the military sphere.
- Recognizing Global Impact: From providing humanitarian aid to maintaining air superiority in conflict zones, the U.S. Air Force’s global operations reflect its vital role in both peacetime and wartime efforts.
- Going to a Veteran-Themed Museum: Many military-related museums around the country give active-duty service members, veterans, and more free access to their exhibits on the U.S. Air Force Birthday.
- Supporting Veterans and Active-Duty Members: Give a shoutout on social media — or better yet, get involved in local events or volunteer opportunities. Posting your experiences with the hashtag #AirForceBirthday spreads awareness and demonstrates that their efforts are not forgotten.
Every year on September 11th, our nation pauses to honor the lives lost in the terrorist attacks of 2001 and to recognize the extraordinary courage of first responders, service members, and everyday heroes who rose to meet that tragic moment. Known as Patriot Day, this solemn day of remembrance serves as a reminder of both the fragility and resilience of the American spirit.
In 2009, Patriot Day was also designated as the National Day of Service and Remembrance. This added purpose transforms grief into action, encouraging Americans to come together in acts of kindness, unity, and volunteerism. By doing so, we pay tribute to the nearly 3,000 lives lost and the countless families and communities forever changed.
The Meaning of Patriot DayPatriot Day is not simply about remembering what was lost—it’s about reflecting on what was found in the days and weeks that followed: courage, unity, and an unwavering sense of community. Flags across the country are flown at half-staff, moments of silence are observed, and stories of resilience are shared. This collective act of remembrance helps ensure that future generations understand the significance of 9/11 and the importance of standing together.
The National Day of Service and RemembranceWhat makes this day unique is its call to action. By turning remembrance into service, Americans honor the spirit of those we lost. Across the nation, people engage in volunteer projects—supporting veterans, helping neighbors in need, donating blood, mentoring youth, cleaning up communities, and countless other acts of service. These efforts not only strengthen local communities but also carry forward the message that even in the darkest times, light can be found through compassion and unity.
How You Can Participate
As we reflect this year, let us carry forward the spirit of those who inspired us in 2001 and commit to building stronger, more compassionate communities every day.
In 2009, Patriot Day was also designated as the National Day of Service and Remembrance. This added purpose transforms grief into action, encouraging Americans to come together in acts of kindness, unity, and volunteerism. By doing so, we pay tribute to the nearly 3,000 lives lost and the countless families and communities forever changed.
The Meaning of Patriot DayPatriot Day is not simply about remembering what was lost—it’s about reflecting on what was found in the days and weeks that followed: courage, unity, and an unwavering sense of community. Flags across the country are flown at half-staff, moments of silence are observed, and stories of resilience are shared. This collective act of remembrance helps ensure that future generations understand the significance of 9/11 and the importance of standing together.
The National Day of Service and RemembranceWhat makes this day unique is its call to action. By turning remembrance into service, Americans honor the spirit of those we lost. Across the nation, people engage in volunteer projects—supporting veterans, helping neighbors in need, donating blood, mentoring youth, cleaning up communities, and countless other acts of service. These efforts not only strengthen local communities but also carry forward the message that even in the darkest times, light can be found through compassion and unity.
How You Can Participate
- Observe a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m., the time when the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center.
- Volunteer with a local nonprofit or community service project.
- Support first responders and veterans by writing thank-you notes or contributing to organizations that serve them.
- Share stories and lessons of 9/11 with younger generations to ensure its meaning is never forgotten.
- Perform simple acts of kindness—check in on a neighbor, donate food, or lend a hand to someone in need.
As we reflect this year, let us carry forward the spirit of those who inspired us in 2001 and commit to building stronger, more compassionate communities every day.
NM Gold Star Mothers Retreat
Joyce Paulsen - Department of New Mexico, Albuquerque Chapter
 | The Dept of NM AGSM's went on a weekend retreat in Fort Stanton, NM. We were hosted by the VSO - Healing America's Heroes. It was a weekend of sharing, laughing, and some tears. This was a special treat from some awesome hosts. We hiked, we visited the state cemetery, shared our heroes, and had a special time of healing and sharing our hearts. A quilt was made by Pat Merville and donated to the Healing America's Heroes organization. |
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Visit to the Manor-August 2025
Debi Win’E - Department of So. Calif-Hawaii, Saddleback Valley Chapter
 | August 15, 2025-Saddleback Valley and Inland Empire were pleased to attend a dinner at the American Legion Newport BeachPost. Glen Patrick, from the American Gold Star Manor, escorted our President, Anette Kirk and 1st VP, Joyce Paulsen. The evening was highlighted by a trip to the Pageant of the Masters in Laguna Beach. August 16, the ladies came together again at the Manor for a Southern California Department meeting and a great lunch and birthday celebration for Glen. |
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US Navy GSM Brunch
Laurie Miner - Department of Virginia, Hampton Roads Chapter
 | On Aug 2nd US Navy Rear Admiral Carl Lahti, Commander Mid-Atlantic, and his wife Mrs. Lisa Lahti generously opened their home to host a delicious brunch for the Hampton Roads Gold Star Moms. He provided us follow-up details to action items that were discussed when he attended our previous monthly meeting. |
Visiting Ft Stanton State Cemetery
Joyce Paulsen - Department of New Mexico, Albuquerque Chapter
The Department of NM visited the State Cemetery in Ft Stanton. We made it a point to visit and say veteran's names.
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Department of NY, Executive Meeting
Carrie Farley - Department of New York
The New York State Department of Veterans' Services proudly joined the Executive Board meeting of the American Gold Star Mothers, National (Official), New York State Chapter. Our Deputy Counsel, Benjamin Pomerance, (standing, back row) presented on DVS’s ongoing work to support Veterans, Service Members, and Military Families. A central focus was this year’s long-awaited victory: expansion of the Gold Star Family Annuity included in the 2025-26 State Budget. One Gold Star Mother from the Rochester area shared her powerful story. Her son was tragically killed in a stateside helicopter crash—yet under the old law, she was denied the Annuity. With the new expansion, she finally qualifies, receiving not only financial support but the lasting recognition of her son’s courageous service and sacrifice. With tears in her eyes, she hugged Benjamin and thanked DVS for championing this long-requested change. We are deeply humbled to walk alongside these incredible Gold Star Mothers in honoring their children and advancing policies that uphold their legacies. With the encouragement of the Gold Star Mothers, we are honored to share both this group photo and powerful story of a mother’s enduring love and sacrifice. God bless our Gold Star Mothers, Gold Star Families, and all who served.
USO BWI Visit August 19, 2025 Baltimore, MD
Kelly Swanson - Department of Maryland/Delaware, Maryland Chapter
 | Members of Gold Star Mothers – Maryland Chapter, Janice Chance, Paula Davis, Theresa Karlson, and Stephanie White, provided lunch to troops preparing for deployment from BWI. The USO’s mission is simple yet powerful: to strengthen America’s military service members by keeping them connected to family, home, and country throughout their service to the nation. At BWI, that mission is lived every single day—supporting troops as they deploy, PCS, or transit through the airport. The troops expressed gratitude for the meal, and the Moms felt privileged to serve our nation’s heroes and look forward to serving again in the future. |
Purple Heart Day is observed annually on August 7th to honor and remember the brave men and women of the U.S. military who have been wounded or killed in action. It's a day to reflect on their sacrifices and express gratitude for their dedication to protecting our freedoms. The Purple Heart medal, originally established in 1782 by George Washington, is the oldest military decoration in continuous use in the United States.
- Modern Recognition:
Today, the Purple Heart is awarded to service members wounded or killed in action against an enemy or as a result of enemy action.
- How to Observe:
Many communities and organizations hold ceremonies and events to honor recipients. You can also show your support by expressing gratitude to veterans and their families.
- Not a Federal Holiday:
While not a federal holiday, Purple Heart Day is widely recognized and observed with various commemorative activities.
- Historical Significance:
The Purple Heart, initially known as the Badge of Military Merit, was created by George Washington to recognize acts of merit by soldiers. It was reinstated as the Purple Heart Medal in 1932.
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