SOS hosts Gold Star Family event

By U.S. ArmyOctober 2, 2014

SOS hosts Gold Star Family event
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The Fort Leonard Wood Survivor Outreach Services hosted their annual Gold Star Mother and Family Day Recognition and Concert event Sunday at the USO.

"As part of our mission to keep these Families connected to the military for as long as they desire, we hold recognition events throughout the year," said Jody Carmack, the Fort Leonard Wood SOS coordinator.

According to Carmack, events for Gold Star Families are important for several different reasons.

"We need to bring the Families together, so they can meet each other. When they meet other Gold Star Families and bond with them, it shows them they aren't alone," Carmack said.

During the afternoon, Families had the opportunity to serve ice cream sundaes to the service members spending the day at the USO.

"The courage it took for these Families of the fallen to step into an atmosphere which is filled with memories of their loss loved ones is truly inspiring to all of us here at the USO," said Kelly Gist, the Fort Leonard Wood USO facility director.

Spc. Melissa Rousslang, Warrior Transition Unit, said Sunday's event provided a sense of community for the Families.

"I think it helps show the Families that they aren't alone, and even though you might have lost a loved one, we (the military) still care about them," Rousslang said.

Volunteering alongside the Gold Star Families not only made an impact on the USO volunteers, but also those who were being served.

While it was an emotional day, one mother enjoyed the opportunity to see first-hand what her son considered to be important.

"Events like this are a way to remember my son. It's such a wonderful thing, and it makes me feel close to him, because I get to experience the things that he valued so highly like service to his country," said Bonita Hines who was there honoring her son Sgt. John Culp.

Later that evening, the 399th Army Band's "Rough Riders" performed a wide-variety of songs requested by the Families.

"As a member of the band, it's an honor and a privilege to be able to perform and serve those parents whose children have given the ultimate sacrifice," said Staff Sgt. Philip Conjerti, 399th Army Band.

The night ended at Army Community Service, where three service members were inducted into the Hall of Remembrance, and their Families chose the spot for their loved ones pictures to be hung.

Col. Andrew Herbst, Garrison commander, officially presented Gold Star pins at the event.

"The loved ones they have lost gave so much, so much dedication and duty and serve as examples for those of us that are serving now and in the future," Herbst said.

"I think people should realize when they see a Gold Star flag or pin what that means, the amount of dedication and sacrifice that those loved ones have made," Herbst said. "The pride that they have in displaying the Gold Star flag really says a lot of them and their Families."