PREFILED    JAN 13 2025

REFERENCE TITLE: gold star families; legacy preservation

State of Arizona

House of Representatives

Fifty-seventh Legislature

First Regular Session

2025

HCR 2010

Introduced by

Representative Blackman

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

Supporting Gold Star Families and the historical significance of the term.

(TEXT OF BILL BEGINS ON NEXT PAGE)

Whereas, since World War I, over 625,000 American service members have been killed in action, making the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedoms and uphold the values of our nation; and

Whereas, organizations such as HonorStates.org have documented the historical profiles of 3,048 American Gold Star veterans with close connections to Arizona, offering an approximate understanding of the number of Gold Star Families in this state; and

Whereas, Gold Star Families, families who have lost an immediate family member in military service, symbolize profound sacrifice, enduring grief and an unbreakable bond of love and service to the nation. The term originated during World War I, when families displayed a gold star on service flags to signify a loved one's death in service. This powerful tradition has continued to honor their legacies and remind the nation of the great cost of freedom; and

Whereas, the term "Gold Star Families" is not just a title but a sacred recognition of their sacrifice, embodying the legacy of their loved ones who gave their lives in service. Preserving this term ensures that the honor, respect and historical significance tied to these families remain intact, serving as a reminder of their contributions to the nation's freedom and security; and

Whereas, recent discussions, such as the Pentagon's consideration of changing the definition of "Gold Star Family" to be "more inclusive," highlight the importance of safeguarding the term's integrity. While inclusivity is valuable, altering the term could dilute its deeply rooted historical and symbolic significance and potentially overshadow the unique sacrifices made by those who have lost a family member in military service; and

Whereas, in Arizona, efforts to honor Gold Star Families include the dedication of this state's first Gold Star Memorial byway marker in Yuma on November 7, 2024, reflecting this state's ongoing commitment to acknowledging and supporting these families; and

Whereas, Gold Star Families are a living testament to the courage, sacrifice and selflessness of those who have given their lives in service to the United States Armed Forces, ensuring that their stories and sacrifices inspire future generations to appreciate the true cost of freedom.

Therefore

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives of the State of Arizona, the Senate concurring:

1. That the Members of the Legislature reaffirm their unwavering support and profound gratitude to America's Gold Star Families who have borne the highest cost of preserving our nation's freedoms.

2. That the 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. That the Members of the Legislature oppose any efforts to change or redefine the term "Gold Star Families," including proposals from the Pentagon to modify its definition.

4. That the 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. That the 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.