MSCoE CG and CSM Send: Honoring our Gold Star spouses

By Maj. Gen. Christopher Beck, Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood commanding general, and MSCoE and Fort Leonard Wood Command Sgt. Maj. Jorge ArzabalaApril 4, 2024

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FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. — Military spouses serve alongside their service members every day. They share in their successes, and they also share in the burden of sacrifice.

On April 5, we recognize Gold Star Spouses Day, in honor of those who bear the unimaginable weight of the loss of a Soldier, Marine, Sailor or Airmen, who have died while serving to ensure our country’s freedom. As members of a grateful nation, we owe a debt we can never repay.

Since 1973, Gold Star spouses can be identified by the Gold Star or Next of Kin lapel pins they wear. The Gold Star pin is awarded to the immediate family members of a service member who died in combat. The Next of Kin pin is given to the families of service members who lost their lives while serving on active duty. When you see someone wearing one of these pins, we encourage you to reach out, ask them about the lives of their loved ones, and share their stories to keep their memories and their service alive.

Gold Star spouses represent a deep love and a reminder of the devotion to a loved one and dedication to our nation. Although we cannot take away their hurt, we have the obligation and the sacred honor to keep them connected with their military family. The Fort Leonard Wood Survivor Outreach Services team is part of Army Community Service, located in Bldg. 486. SOS specialists offer access to support, information and services, ensuring families are cared for as long as they need. You can visit the ACS website for more information.

Gold Star spouses and their families will always be a part of the Army and the Fort Leonard Wood family. Thank you for your support; we are honored to serve with you.

Victory Starts Here! — Victory Through Skill!