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ARIZONA STATE SENATE
Fifty-Seventh Legislature, First Regular Session
gold star families; legacy preservation
Purpose
Expresses the Legislature's support of Gold Star Families, pledge to preserve the term Gold Star Families and encouragement of public and private entities in Arizona to protect the term.
Background
The term Gold Star Families is a modern reference that comes from the service flags and banners that were first flown by families during World War I. The flag included a blue star for every immediate family member serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, during any period of war or hostilities in which the U.S. Armed Forces were engaged. In the event of a death, the blue star is replaced with a gold variant, the highest honor. The title is meant to honor the service member’s ultimate sacrifice while acknowledging the loss, grief and continued healing of the member's family (U.S. Army).
The Arizona Gold Star Military Medal may be awarded on behalf of the people of Arizona to a state resident who was a member of the Arizona National Guard, U.S. military reserves or U.S. Armed Forces that has been killed in action while: 1) engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States; 2) engaged in military operations involving a conflict with an opposing foreign force; 3) serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party; or 4) serving in a designated combat zone. A recipient of the Arizona Gold Star Military Medal may have the recipient's name entered on the Arizona Gold Star Military Medal Honor Roll (A.R.S. § 41.608.05).
There is no anticipated fiscal impact to the state General Fund associated with this legislation.
Provisions
1. Expresses that members of the Legislature reaffirm their unwavering support of and profound gratitude to America's Gold Star Families who have borne the highest cost of preserving the nation's freedom.
2. Expresses that members of the Legislature honor the sacred legacy of the term Gold Star Families recognizing it as an enduring symbol of sacrifice, grief and resilience and commit to preserving its meaning for generations to come.
3. Expresses that members of the Legislature oppose any efforts to change or redefine the term Gold Star Families including proposals from the U.S. Pentagon to modify the definition.
4. Expresses that members of the Legislature urge public and private entities throughout Arizona to protect and elevate the term Gold Star Families in all programs, recognitions and public communications, ensuring that the sacrifices of these families are never diminished.
5. Expresses that members of the Legislature pledge to ensure that Gold Star Families receive the care, respect and recognition they deserve as a tribute to their enduring contributions to our state and nation.
House Action
GOV 2/19/25 DP 6-0-1-0
3rd Read 2/26/25 57-0-3
Prepared by Senate Research
March 6, 2025
KJA/NRG/slp