Gold Star families are the immediate family members of a fallen service member. These families share a common sacrifice, and a group of Marine veterans in Kentucky want to honor them.

Members of the Greenbo Detachment of the Marine Corps League are raising funds from local businesses and non-profits to build a Gold Star Families Monument in Ashland, Kentucky.

Medal of Honor recipient Hershel “Woody” Williams is leading the effort. Williams was instrumental in the construction of two other similar monuments for Gold Star Families. He estimates that the monument will cost $40,000.

Greenbo Detachment members Mike Hale and Jack Nuckols recently spoke with Ashland’s mayor Chuck D. Charles about the monument. Hale said that they “strive to perpetuate the spirit of patriotism.” 

The proposed monument design consists of several panels and five emblems, one for each military branch. It will be dedicated to Gold Star families from all branches of the military, not just the Marines.

(Source: Stripes.com)