The symbol of the Gold Star to honor fallen heroes originated with World War I. As that conflict got under way, women donned Blue Stars on their sleeves to indicate that a loved one was serving in the United States military.  Escalated, the war claimed its casualties and women sought a way to honor those who would not be returning home.  They did so by sewing Gold Stars over the Blue predecessors.  After the Women’s Committee of National Defense brought this, in 1918, to the attention of President Woodrow Wilson, our nation formally adopted the symbol of the Gold Star to honor fallen soldiers.  This adoption served as the blueprint for similar organizations that wished to manifest respect for soldiers serving in future wars.

In June of 1928, twenty-five women wearing Gold Stars assembled in our nation’s capital to establish The American Gold Star Mothers.  A non-profit organization encompassing members of all faiths and political beliefs, its goal was to honor, assist, and preserve the spirit of America.  The organization incorporated six months later, leading chapters in other States to affiliate with them.  In years to follow, additional organizations formed, based upon the meaning behind the Gold Stars.  A few of these include The Gold Star Wives, The Gold Star Families, and The Gold Star Museums.

Today, 45 of the United States issue Gold Star license plates.  Although the Garden State produces 106 plates designated to special causes, the Gold Star does not number among them.   Passage of approval to manufacturer the plates has been stalled in our State’s legislature.  The outcome of this situation is still a mystery; however, it is congruent with an apparent trend in our country.  New Jersey’s delay in issuing license plates to honor our fallen wounded is but an indication of the direction in which our country is heading: straight to hell in a hand basket.  Political leaders who display little or no regard for our Constitution are testing the tenets upon which the United States was founded.  If New Jersey cannot solve the simple problem as to whether or not to press Gold Star license plates, may heaven help us, and soon!