Supporting the Families of Those Who Serve

On February 1, 1942, in Flint, Michigan, approximately 300 mothers of service men and women formed the Blue Star Mothers of America. Created to provide support for troops, veterans, and families during WWII, the organization was formally chartered by Congress in 1960. Today, there are more than 200 chapters and approximately 6,000 members nationwide.

The mission of Blue Star Mothers reads: “We are mothers, stepmothers, grandmothers, foster mothers and female legal guardians who have children serving in the military, guard or reserves, or children who are veterans. We support each other and our children while promoting patriotism. Our organization focuses on our mission every single day and will never, ever, forsake our troops, our veterans or the families of our Fallen Heroes.”

Holden resident Sharon Bouchard is the mother of two Marine veterans. She recognized the need for a local chapter when her oldest son was deployed to Iraq in 2002. In July 2006, Bouchard and Blue Star Mother Rose Annese cofounded Chapter 1, based in Leominster, which was the first chapter in Massachusetts and serves Central and Western Massachusetts. 

At that time, there was no support for mothers of active-duty service personnel in the state. “I had pride in my son’s service, but I was anxious about the unknown,” said Bouchard. “Through the group, I found strength in supporting our troops with useful work and the opportunity to be united with other mothers. The group was an absolute life line.” Bouchard has been the president of Chapter 1 for the past two years. Today, there are additional chapters in Taunton and Worcester.

Bouchard says volunteers with the organization serve as a “mom when no mom is available,” which includes hospital visits to the wounded and caring for military who are left with “invisible wounds.” The Blue Star Mothers website provides information and resources for families whose veteran may be suffering from Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and/or Post Traumatic Stress (PTS).

Community outreach and visibility is a high priority for Blue Star Mothers, who rely upon the generous donations from groups such as the American Legion, VFW, and Vietnam Veterans Association. To raise awareness, the group marches in parades, participates in Community Salutes, fundraises at local businesses, and attends community events such as fairs and festivals.

Recently, Bouchard and other members of the organization completed Operation Tiny Troops. Families of active-duty Marines received baskets filled with items to help expectant mothers and their babies.

Some Blue Star families, whose son or daughter has paid the ultimate sacrifice, become Gold Star families. In the midst of unbearable pain and grief, Blue Star Mothers step in to provide support and care. They attend funerals, schedule home visits, and present Gold Star banners to the family, just a few ways in which they honor the sacrifice. Gold Star families receive support during and after tragedy. They are never forgotten, and they are not alone.

“As deployments have increased since the war with Iran began, we are receiving more calls from the mothers of service members,” explained Bouchard. “We are here to support them as they navigate during these uncertain times.”

For more information on this organization and ways in which you can become involved, visit bluestarmothers.org.   W