American Gold Star Mothers, Inc.

About American Gold Star Mothers, Inc.

The American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. is a congressionally chartered nonprofit organization founded in 1928 to honor and support mothers who have lost a son or daughter in service to the United States Armed Forces. The organization provides fellowship, remembrance, and service while preserving the legacy and sacrifice of fallen service members.

Who the Organization Represents

American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. represents mothers whose children gave their lives while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Through shared experience and mutual support, the organization offers compassion, advocacy, and opportunities for service rooted in remembrance and patriotism.

What the Organization Does

• Provides emotional support and fellowship to Gold Star Mothers
• Honors and preserves the memory of fallen service members
• Engages in patriotic, educational, and community service activities
• Supports veterans, military families, and youth-focused initiatives
• Participates in commemorative events and national remembrance programs

Where the Organization Operates

American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. operates through a national organization with local chapters across the United States. Local chapters serve as the primary point of engagement for members, while the national organization provides governance, standards, and national representation.

Member Eligibility Requirements

Membership in American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. is based on the loss of a child who served honorably in the United States Armed Forces and is subject to verification.

• Applicants must be the mother of a service member who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.
• The service member’s death must have occurred during military service or as a result of service-related causes.
• Applicants must provide acceptable documentation verifying their relationship and the service member’s status.
• Members must be of good moral character and support the purposes and objectives of the organization.
• Final approval of membership is granted in accordance with national bylaws and verified at the Chapter level.

How Membership Is Structured

Membership is administered through local chapters organized under the national association. Members may participate in chapter meetings, memorial events, community service projects, and national conventions while contributing to the organization’s mission of remembrance and support.