Gold Star Mother’s Day – Honoring the Families Who Gave All

On the last Sunday of September, our Nation observes Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day. It’s a day set aside not for parades or celebrations, but for quiet remembrance. A day to honor the mothers and families who have borne the greatest loss — a son or daughter who laid down their life in service to our country.

The term “Gold Star” comes from World War I, when families hung service flags in their windows. A blue star represented a family member serving in uniform. When that loved one was killed in action, the blue star was replaced with a gold star. That simple change told the world: this family has given their child to the cause of freedom. (American Gold Star Mothers)

The Legacy of Gold Star Mothers

The American Gold Star Mothers organization was founded in 1928 by Grace Darling Seibold, a mother who lost her son, 1LT George Seibold, during World War I. Grace turned her grief into action, creating a community where mothers could find strength in one another, honor their children’s memory, and dedicate themselves to helping veterans and their communities.

Their mission remains unchanged:

“Finding strength in the fellowship of other Gold Star Mothers who strive to keep the memory of our sons and daughters alive by working to help veterans, those currently serving in the military, their families, and our communities.”

For nearly a century, Gold Star Mothers have been a living reminder of sacrifice and resilience. From volunteering at VA hospitals to comforting grieving families to advocating for veterans, their legacy is written not just in history books but in the lives they touch every day.

Old Salt Coffee’s Commitment

At Old Salt Coffee, our mission has always been grounded in Maritime Heritage, Premium Coffee, and Giving Back. On this solemn day, we’re doing our part to give back to those who have given everything.

On Sunday, September 28, 2025, Old Salt Coffee will donate 10% of all sales to the American Gold Star Mothers organization. It’s our way of saying: we see you, we remember your children, and we will never forget their sacrifice.

Every bag of coffee you order that day will help honor their memory and support the important work Gold Star Mothers do — from serving veterans to strengthening communities across the Nation.

How You Can Take Part

1. Shop with Purpose: Every bag, every mug, every subscription purchased on September 28 will directly contribute to the American Gold Star Mothers.

2. Spread the Word: Share this story with your shipmates, family, and friends. The more mugs we hoist, the greater the impact.

3. Pause and Remember: Take a moment that day — whether over morning coffee or an evening cup — to say the names of those we’ve lost, and to remember the families left behind.

Final Thoughts

Gold Star Mothers carry a burden no one should ever have to bear. Yet, they do so with grace, dignity, and an unwavering devotion to their children’s memory. From Grace Darling Seibold in 1928 to today’s Gold Star Mothers and Families, their fellowship has turned grief into service, ensuring that the fallen are never forgotten.

On Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day, let’s make sure they know we stand with them.

Join us on September 28th. Hoist a mug. Honor the fallen. Support the mothers.

Fair winds and following seas to our Gold Star families. You are not forgotten.

Learn more about the American Gold Star Mothers organization here.