New Hampshire Blue Star Mother's Day
On January 22, 1942 the Flint News Advertiser printed a coupon asking Mothers of serviceman to return the coupon after filling it out. The following February 1st 300 mothers met in the Durant Hotel, in Flint Michigan. Captain George H. Maines, who had conceived the idea for this group, acted as the chair of this first meeting. It was decided that after receiving 1000 responses from the ad to form a permanent organization.
On February 6th the organization was reported on Congressional record. Chapters then formed in Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, New York, Pennsylvania, Oregon, California, Iowa and Washington. In June of 1960 the organization was chartered by congress.
The Blue Star Flag again became a symbol of love, pride, hope and grave concern. It also became a symbol of what Americans at home could do to increase a mother's chance of seeing her son's safe return: rationing, working in factories building needed materials, and even reminding all at home that "loose lips sink ships". The Blue Star Flag, often quickly visible from the windows of many houses up and down any given street in America, symbolized a pride in the commitment of America's youth and a reminder of the gravity of the entire war effort.
Mothers volunteered throughout the tough times of World War II. They worked in hospitals, train stations, packed care packages for soldiers and were an working part of homeland security during times our time of war. The national organization waned in size over the years but has held together by mothers showing pride in both their children and country. In recent times we have began to grow in strength. Being attacked on our own soil has once again started mothers hanging flags in their windows at home proclaiming pride in the fact that we have children protecting our freedom during at time of war.
Just as when it was founded, the Blue Star Mothers continues to concentrate on providing emotional support to its members, providing support to active military troops, doing volunteer work with veterans in general and veterans’ hospitals in particular, and fostering a sense of patriotism and respect for members of the Armed Forces.
Blue Star Mothers do much more than volunteer in VA hospitals and outreach centers. They work in physical and emotional rehabilitation; help with medical supplies, transportation, food, clothing and friendship, gratitude and love.
On September 29, 2005 Blue Star Mothers of New Hampshire was chartered. We were the first chapter in New Hampshire history. In 2012 the Governor proclaimed the first Sunday after Mother's Day as Blue Star Mother's Day recognizing and honoring all mothers who now have, or have had, children honorably serving in the United States armed forces. The governor urges the citizens of this state to observe this day with appropriate events.
On this day take a moment to say thank you to all who have served, say a prayer for those who are serving far away from home and hang your Blue Star Banner proudly.
