Senate Resolution No. 528

BY: Senator JACOBS

COMMEMORATING the 75th Anniversary of Blue Star
Mothers of America, Inc. on January 22, 2017

WHEREAS, The quality and character of life in this Nation, and the
great State of New York, is reflective of the purposeful lives and good
works of those patriotic and civic-minded community members who dedicate
their lives and careers to the service of others; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the
75th Anniversary of Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc. on Sunday,
January 22, 2017; and

WHEREAS, The Flint News Advertiser printed an ad, requesting for
mothers of servicemen to fill out and return a coupon on January 22,
1942; the following year, 300 mothers met in the Durant Hotel in Flint,
Michigan to discuss their common concerns in their first meeting; and

WHEREAS, Following their initial meeting and after receiving 1,000
responses from the ad, a permanent organization for military mothers was
established; on February 6, 1943, the organization was reported on
Congressional Record and in June of 1960, the organization was chartered
by the United States Congress; and

WHEREAS, Created in 1917 by an Army Captain from Ohio, the Blue Star
Flag quickly became the unofficial symbol of a child in service; mothers
hung the Service Star flag in their windows, proclaiming pride in the
fact that they had children protecting the freedom of our country during
a time of war; the blue star represents a service member in active duty
and the gold star represents a service member was killed in action, or
died in service; and

WHEREAS, Since World War II, Blue Stars of America, Inc. has
supported mothers of children serving or who have served in the
military; their mission is to serve our troops, veterans and their
families through outreach programs as well as assist in ceremonies,
provide goods to troops in need, both locally and abroad, and strive to
support one another during times of need; and

WHEREAS, In 2010, Blue Star Mothers of America Buffalo-Niagara
Chapter NY No. 7 was chartered with the Blue Star Mothers of America,
Inc. to assist local Erie and Niagara County mothers working together to
support each other, their sons and daughters, and their comrades who
proudly serve, or have honorably served in the United States Military;
and

WHEREAS, The organization consists of mothers, stepmothers,
grandmothers, foster mothers and female legal guardians who have
children serving in the military, guard or reserves, or children who are
veterans; they also strive to promote patriotism, focusing on their
mission every day and never forsaking the troops, veterans or the
families of the Fallen Heroes; and

WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by the Blue
Star Mothers for their dedication to the members of the Armed Forces;
and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when
individuals and associations of such noble aims and accomplishments are
brought to our attention, they should be recognized and applauded by all
the citizens of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 75th Anniversary of Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc.;
and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc. Buffalo-Niagara
Chapter, New York No.7.