Gold Star Mothers

By Regis Murphy, Jr.
Contributing Writer

USVI, November 1, 2003 -- The ultimate victims of war are, I believe, the Mothers of those killed in action defending our country. These women belong to the most difficult organization to join in the world. The cost of admission is the loss of a child! Yet, these ladies keep the faith with their children, themselves and our country, by continuing to devote their time and energy to aid those mothers who have sons or daughters on active duty as well as assist veterans with all sorts of situations. The God Star Mothers seem to be a well kept secret among many veterans who don't know who they are, what they are all about and what they can do to help them.

American Gold Star Mothers, Inc., headquarters in Washington, D.C., lobbies for veteran's benefits in al political arenas. They associate with officials at the highest level and maintain a direct line of communication to all relevant action departments that have the capability to make changes and assist with veteran problems. Congressmen of all parties are aware of the influence the God Star Mothers have on their constituencies and in most cases when assistance is requested of them they are receptive. Being that American Gold Star Mothers is a national organization with active chapters located in or close to most major cities, they are available, in person, to most veterans, dependents, widows, and, of course, eligible mothers.

Just as many veterans can use the help of the Gold Star Mothers, so can they use yours. No, they're not asking for money, although donations are accepted. They do want you to know that they are available to you, and will do all they can to correct any disservice you may have encountered and that is one way you can help them. You can help them accomplish their mission of aiding you as they would have liked someone to help their children if the events of war would have been different.

The newly appointed National President, Ann Y. Sherman Wolcott, is a friend of all veterans and would like to hear from you, if for no other reason than to hear your voice. Ann is responsible for the successful completion, in weeks rather than months or years, of numerous requests for disability assistance. She is also the mother of Corporal Rex Sherman who was KIA 11/19/69 while serving in the Republic of Vietnam as a member of 'Charlie' Company, 75th Infantry, Airborne Ranger.

Please do yourself and all of us a favor, give her/them a call at 202-265-0991 or e-mail agsmoms@aol.com to show your support. Their web site address is www.goldstarmoms.com.