Washington Memorial Chapel’s Gold Star Mother's & Family's Service

Washington Memorial Chapel’s Veteran’s Commission has announced that it will observe Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day on Sunday, September 29 with a special mass, prayer procession, and reception to honor the military families of our fallen heroes.

The event will begin at 10 AM at the Washington Memorial Chapel (2000 Valley Forge Park Rd, King of Prussia, PA 19406) with a Choral Mass for the Feast of St. Michael and All Angels followed by a prayer procession outside to the Statue of Sacrifice and Devotion at the Cloister of the Colonies, which has been a great comfort for mothers, wives, and families of those on active duty since World War I.

A free reception will follow immediately after in Patriots Hall with light refreshments, which is free to guests. However, registration is appreciated. Link to RSVP: http://evite.me/2h5yp5pwxC.

Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day dates back to World War I, when families displayed service flags with blue stars to represent loved ones serving in the military. If a service member lost his or her life, the blue star was replaced with a gold one, symbolizing the family’s loss and the nation's gratitude.

In 1936, Congress designated the last Sunday in September as Gold Star Mother’s Day (now known as Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day).

Following the end of World War II, Congress designated the Gold Star Lapel Pin. The pin features a gold star with a purple background surrounded by laurel leaves. According to law, the United States military must present the lapel pin to the immediate family member of the deceased.

The Chapel is located at 2000 Valley Forge Park Rd, King of Prussia, PA 19406.