Monday, Assemblymember Rudy Salas (D-Bakersfield), Assemblymember Dante Acosta (R-Santa Clarita) and the California State Assembly honored mothers and families who have lost a son, daughter or family member serving in defense of our nation with Assembly Concurrent Resolution (ACR) 192, which proclaims September 30, 2018 as Gold Star Mothers' and Families' Day in California.
The United States began observing Gold Star Mothers' Day in 1936 on the last Sunday in September to offer support for mothers who lost their sons or daughters while serving in the military. The symbolism of the gold star originated from a practice of military families displaying American flags bearing a blue star for every member serving in the armed forces. Families attached a gold star over the blue star to honor those members who died during military service.
"In recognizing Gold Star mothers and families, we honor the memory of fallen soldiers for their bravery and sacrifice, and pay tribute to the unthinkable loss that Gold Star mothers and families endure," said Assemblymember Salas. "Today and everyday our heart and prayers are with the soldiers who gave their lives in defense of our freedom, and with the families who live with their absence."
Salas was joined by Assemblymember Dante Acosta- a Gold Star Father himself and joint author of ACR 192 - in honoring Gold Star Mothers and Families and the heroes tragically lost while serving in the military.
"When my son, Rudy Acosta, was killed in Afghanistan, our family joined a club that I hope and pray no one ever has to join," said Assemblymember Dante Acosta. "Losing him changed our lives forever. Honoring the ongoing sacrifice of the loved ones left behind is a tribute to the selflessness that our men and women in uniform display every day on our behalf. I am proud to join Assemblymember Salas in authoring this resolution."
Salas and Acosta also jointly authored ACR 120 last year recognizing Gold Star Mothers' and Families' Day. Salas will join Gold Star Families from Assembly District 32 in September to commemorate Gold Mothers' and Families' Day, honoring the families and the memory of their loved ones who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.
