Each year the Westchester County Veterans Service Agency gathers with family members of fallen servicemen at the Memorial Tree Walkway at Kensico Dam Plaza for the national observance of the Gold Star Mothers Ceremony.
Gold Star Mothers, families, veterans and friends are invited to attend this ceremony as we remember, reflect and honor the memory of these fallen heroes.
Who are Gold Star Mothers
American Gold Star Mothers was formed after World War I to provide support for mothers who lost sons or daughters in the war. The name originated from the custom of families of servicemen hanging a banner called a service flag in the window of their homes. The Service Flag had a star for each family member serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Living servicemen were represented by a blue star, and those who had lost their lives were represented by a gold star.
Today, membership in Gold Star Mothers is open to any American woman who has lost a son or daughter in service to the United States. Read more about the Gold Star Mothers organization's beginnings.
Annual Memorial Tribute Ceremony, Sept. 25, to be virtual
Gold Star Mothers Day is observed on the last Sunday in September. This year that is Sept. 25. at 11 a.m. Gold Star Mothers and their families can join County Executive George Latimer for a virtual ceremony on Facebook/westchestergov due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Memorial Walkway
Kensico Dam Plaza is the site of the county’s Memorial Walkway. The walkway was created to honor the heroes who died while serving in military campaigns that followed the 9/11 terror attacks. Many were inspired to military service because of the September 11 attacks on America; and for that reason, the Memorial Walkway was established adjacent to “The Rising”, the county’s memorial to those killed on September 11.