Forgotten Heroes BurialDepartment: New Mexico Chapter: Albuquerque
Honor Flight Welcome Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) Baltimore, Maryland September 16, 2025Department: Maryland/Delaware Chapter: Maryland
Donation of Television to Veterans Home Ben Atchley Veterans Home Knoxville, Tennessee September 20, 2025Department: Tennessee 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. 
|
 |  |
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. |
0 Comments
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. |
 |  |
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. |
 |   |
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.
 |  |
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. |
Department of New Jersey
Gold Star Chair Dedication Ceremony
On May 26, 2025, members of the Department of New Jersey proudly participated in a heartfelt chair dedication ceremony honoring Gold Star Mothers and their fallen heroes. The event held at Veterans Park, Ocean City, NJ was a tribute to the sacrifices made by service members and the enduring strength of their families. A highlight of the ceremony was the presence of Elizabeth Zaneri, recognized as the oldest living Gold Star member of the Dept of NJ, whose son SSgt Philip Zaneri, USAF gave his life in service in 1995.
Dept of NJ Officers, Lisa Brunner, Patricia Murgolo and Amy Moore, attended along with the Commander of VFW Post 6650, Mike Morrissey and Patrick Hughes, Rolling Thunder National.
Dept of NJ Officers, Lisa Brunner, Patricia Murgolo and Amy Moore, attended along with the Commander of VFW Post 6650, Mike Morrissey and Patrick Hughes, Rolling Thunder National.
Department of Maryland/Deleware
Operation Gratitude Care Package Assembly Day Edward J. Pryzbyia University Center Washington, DC May 31, 2025
Volunteer Chapter
New Veterans Memorial and More
The Volunteer Chapter had a busy day on May 17th. After our meeting, we visited the new French Broad River Veterans Memorial Park. We were blessed to spend some time with Bill Robinson who was the longest enlisted POW during the Vietnam War.
L-R: Sherrie Battle McGhee, Marsha Hunt, Kelly Swanson, Bill Robinson, Gayle Thomas, Lynn Forehand, and Brenda Shelton.
Next, we dropped by the East Tennessee Veterans Cemetery (which is also on the French Broad River), and we visited the Gold Star Memorial at the cemetery.
L-R: Sherrie Battle McGhee, Lynn Forehand, Brenda Shelton, Gayle Thomas, Kelly Swanson, and Marsha Hunt.
Tampa Bay Chapter
Woody Williams Gold Star monument unveilingOn Saturday May 17 2025, Lorrie Fleming attended the ceremony in Miami Florida to the unveiling of the Woody Williams Gold Star Monument. Lorrie was at the event and was able to get together with our PNP Georgia Carter Krell. Georgie has been a member of AGSM since 1976. It was a honor to get together with Georgie. |  |
Department of Maine
Welcome Home Celebration for 1st Honor Flight Maine departing out of Bangor International Airport
President Lorna Harris with Treasurer & Secretary Susan Stout
Albuquerque Chapter
 | The Albuquerque Chapter attended the Vietnam Veterans Commemoration at the New Mexico Veterans Memorial Park in Albuquerque NM. During the ceremony Welcome Home pins were passed out to all the Vietnam Veterans who had never received the pin. When the Master of Ceremonies announced it was time for the official pinning, I looked around and noticed a man sitting behind me looking blankly at the pin in his hand. |
I maneuvered through the chairs and asked him if I could put the pin on his shirt. He looked a little
confused, like he didn’t realize what was happening. I told him it was my honor to place the pin on his shirt and welcome him home. At that point I saw a little glimmer of pride in his eyes. After the ceremony everyone walked across the roadway where lunch was being served. As I walked up to the end of the line, I
noticed an emblem on the jacket of a man waiting in line. It was of the 173 rd Airborne Brigade. The same
brigade my son Devin had been with when he parachuted into Iraq on March 20, 2003. Of course, I wanted
to speak with this man because of my interest in his patch. I touched the man on the arm to get his
attention. When he turned around, I realized it was the same Veteran I had pinned just minutes before. A
chill went up my spine and goosebumps developed on the back of my neck. God put this veteran in my
path that day. We visited for quite some time, and I learned so much more about the history of the “Sky
Soldiers”.
Who would have thought I would receive a blessing by going to a Vietnam Ceremony?
Karen Alexander
American Gold Star Mother – Albuquerque Chapter
confused, like he didn’t realize what was happening. I told him it was my honor to place the pin on his shirt and welcome him home. At that point I saw a little glimmer of pride in his eyes. After the ceremony everyone walked across the roadway where lunch was being served. As I walked up to the end of the line, I
noticed an emblem on the jacket of a man waiting in line. It was of the 173 rd Airborne Brigade. The same
brigade my son Devin had been with when he parachuted into Iraq on March 20, 2003. Of course, I wanted
to speak with this man because of my interest in his patch. I touched the man on the arm to get his
attention. When he turned around, I realized it was the same Veteran I had pinned just minutes before. A
chill went up my spine and goosebumps developed on the back of my neck. God put this veteran in my
path that day. We visited for quite some time, and I learned so much more about the history of the “Sky
Soldiers”.
Who would have thought I would receive a blessing by going to a Vietnam Ceremony?
Karen Alexander
American Gold Star Mother – Albuquerque Chapter
Joann Zembeic, Becky Christmas, Pat Merville, Karen Alexander, Shirley Tetreault, and Joyce Paulsen
Tampa bay
| On January 9, 2025, awesome community partner "Operation Patriot Support" provided a fabulous feast for the families residing at the Fisher House at James Haley VA Hospital, Tampa, FL. Operation Patriot Support served up a fully loaded Carrabba's dinner for the 4th year now. |  |
AGSM, Inc. Tampa Bay also hosted a Christmas Cookie and Treats Table at the Fisher House at Lake Nona, Orlando VA Medical Health Care System. Volunteering at this Fisher House is part of the AGSM, Inc. Dept of FL-PR's vision and mission to serve at all seven of the Fisher Houses in the great state of Florida. All this would not be possible without the vision of the Fisher House founders, Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher. Many thanks to Fisher House community partners, Operation Patriot Support, and the Fisher House Foundation.
In February, at the Veterans Council of Hillsborough County, FL., Inc., the Tampa Bay Chapter served cupcakes and kisses, Hershey Kisses, to the veterans in attendance. Needless to say, it was a sweet, sweet event for those who enjoyed the cupcakes and the kisses....the chocolate ones, that is!
  |  |
albuquerque
Blue Star Moms and Gold Star Mothers teamed up to pass out candy and cards at the Albuquerque VA Hospital on February 14. In the center of the picture, Shirley Tetreault and Jo Ann Zembeic, GSMs helped along with GS Dad and Vietnam Veteran, Al Tetreault.
February 19 was Military and Veterans’ Day at the New Mexico State Legislature. Joyce Paulsen, National 2nd VP and Albuquerque Chapter President and NM Department President attended along with Eddie Crain, Vietnam Veteran and founder of Healing Americas Heroes, Becky Christmas and Shirley Tetreault also attended. Eddie was presented with an original watercolor painting by Becky of the Catholic Chapel on Ft. Stanton, NM, where Healing America’s Heroes is located. Eddie was actually an alter boy at this Chapel when he was a young boy.
Tampa Bay Chapter, Florida
AGSM, Inc. Tampa Bay / VAVS CDCE Rep FH dinner
| Recently, AGSM, Inc., Tampa Bay Chapter answered the call for an important need at the Fisher House at James Haley VA Hospital, Tampa, FL. The day before Thanksgiving, the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 787, delivered a festive fabulous Thanksgiving Day feast to the FH.....to be enjoyed on Thanksgiving Day. Because of a staff shortage at the FH, the VAVS CDCE volunteer on duty that day was asked to provide a meal Wednesday evening for 13 families so that they could enjoy the Thanksgiving meal the next day. Thankfully, there were lots of ingredients in the well equipped FH kitchen available to make 2 crock pots full of chili, rice, shredded cheese, rolls, and salad. With a little kitchen magic and an online "simple chili recipe"....the families were able to enjoy a hearty meal and a fully loaded Thanksgiving Day Dinner the next day. |  |
 |  |
Submitted by Toni Gross
AGSM, Inc., Tampa Bay
VAVS CDCE Chairman
AGSM, Inc., Tampa Bay
VAVS CDCE Chairman
In 2017, I attended my first Westgate Foundation Military Appreciation Weekend. I was invited during my first week as the Department President of FL-PR, and it marked my first official opportunity to build relationships outside my local chapter.
Every year, the Westgate Foundation provides vacations to eligible active-duty military members, veterans, and Gold Star families. These families enjoy a three-day, two-night, stress-free weekend filled with family-friendly activities, live music, and patriotic displays at the Westgate property in Kissimmee, Florida. Additionally, various veteran service organizations, including American Gold Star Mothers, set up tables for a one-day resource fair. Many of these organizations focus on managing PTSD through counseling, equine therapy, and the use of service dogs.
Seven years later, that initial opportunity has allowed me to connect with numerous individuals from various veteran service organizations. They share a common vision and a commitment to the same goals as AGSM, Inc. If you attended our 2021 national convention in West Palm Beach, you may remember that the Westgate Foundation was a sponsor. Since then, the Foundation has generously donated to the Department of FL-PR. With these donations, we established our own Chapter Grants for veteran service projects, similar to our National Chapter Grant program, and named it the Georgie Carter-Krell Grant.
This past weekend, my Gold Star sisters, Lorrie Fleming and Sandy Miller, managed the resource table, after which we attended the concert. It was during this event that we received a generous $10,000 donation! Just imagine how many veterans we can support with that funding!
Every year, the Westgate Foundation provides vacations to eligible active-duty military members, veterans, and Gold Star families. These families enjoy a three-day, two-night, stress-free weekend filled with family-friendly activities, live music, and patriotic displays at the Westgate property in Kissimmee, Florida. Additionally, various veteran service organizations, including American Gold Star Mothers, set up tables for a one-day resource fair. Many of these organizations focus on managing PTSD through counseling, equine therapy, and the use of service dogs.
Seven years later, that initial opportunity has allowed me to connect with numerous individuals from various veteran service organizations. They share a common vision and a commitment to the same goals as AGSM, Inc. If you attended our 2021 national convention in West Palm Beach, you may remember that the Westgate Foundation was a sponsor. Since then, the Foundation has generously donated to the Department of FL-PR. With these donations, we established our own Chapter Grants for veteran service projects, similar to our National Chapter Grant program, and named it the Georgie Carter-Krell Grant.
This past weekend, my Gold Star sisters, Lorrie Fleming and Sandy Miller, managed the resource table, after which we attended the concert. It was during this event that we received a generous $10,000 donation! Just imagine how many veterans we can support with that funding!
 |  |
Annette M Kirk
National 1st Vice President
American Gold Star Mothers, Inc.
Proud Gold Star Mother of
PFC Paul O Cuzzupe II, US Army
12/2/86 - 8/8/10
“Standing in the Gap”
National 1st Vice President
American Gold Star Mothers, Inc.
Proud Gold Star Mother of
PFC Paul O Cuzzupe II, US Army
12/2/86 - 8/8/10
“Standing in the Gap”
Archives
November 2025
October 2025
September 2025
August 2025
June 2025
May 2025
April 2025
March 2025
February 2025
January 2025
December 2024
November 2024
October 2024
September 2024
August 2024
July 2024
Categories
All
Americanism
Centennial Sunday
Chapter & Department News
Events
Fun Stuff
Happy Birthday
Mission Monday
National Day Of...
National Executive Board
News
Togetherness Tuesday
What Our Moms Are Doing Wednesday
RSS Feed