The gold star tradition began during World War I, when families searched for ways to publicly recognize loved ones serving overseas. In 1917, Army Captain Robert L. Queisser created what became known as the Blue Star Service Banner to represent his sons on active duty. The idea quickly spread, and families across the nation displayed banners with blue stars in their windows. When a service member was killed, the blue star was replaced with a gold one—transforming the banner into a symbol of loss, honor, and national gratitude.

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