Category War

GOLD STAR MOTHER’S AND FAMILY DAY

Jensperspectiveblog 32 Comments

Each year on the last Sunday in September, Gold Star Mother’s and Family Day honors the mothers, fathers and families of fallen military service members. Also known as National Gold Star Mother’s Day, the day serves as a reminder of the losses suffered by military families. 

The price of freedom can be measured by those who have given their full measure of devotion, and the families left behind.  It is a debt that can never be fully repaid.

Since World War I, the observance has provided a way to recognize and honor those who have lost a son or daughter who served our country in the United States Armed Forces. 

A gold star symbolizes a family member who died in the line of duty while serving the United States Armed Forces.

Gold Star mothers and families know the immeasurable cost of fighting for the ideals we believe in, and they know the pride that comes with exemplary service to America.
~ President Barack Obama ~ September 23, 2011 ~ Presidential Proclamation 

GOLD STAR MOTHER’S AND FAMILY DAY HISTORY

On June 23, 1936, a joint congressional resolution designated the last Sunday in September as Gold Star Mother’s Day and proclaimed annually by each president.  In 2011, President Barack Obama amended the day to “Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day.”

Organizations around the country honor Gold Star families through ceremonies, luncheons, and teas. They give back to their communities by remembering fallen service members. Service organizations provide opportunities to remember the fallen and their families. Their ceremonies take place at military memorial sights and veteran’s cemeteries. On the local, state and national levels, representatives speak of the importance of remembering our fallen sons and daughters while continuing to care for their families.   

The history of National Gold Star Mother’s Day and their families begins with a young country thrown in the midst of a great war. Army Captian Robert L. Queissner, whose two sons were serving on the front line during World War I, created what is now called the Service Flag. The flag was displayed with a blue star to represent a child serving in the military during times of war or hostilities. When a service member died, families stitched a gold star over the blue star.

American Gold Star Mothers, Inc.

The American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. was incorporated in 1929 and obtained a federal charter from the United States Congress.  It began in the Washington DC area and soon expanded to include affiliated groups throughout the United States. 

Membership in any one organization is not required for gold star mothers to access benefits. Please visit military.com for more information.

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HOW TO OBSERVE #GoldStarMothersDay

An ocean often divided families from their deceased sons, as was the case of the founder of the American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. organization, Grace Darling Seibold. While waiting for confirmation of her son’s death, she visited the VA hospital almost daily and made herself useful in the process. Afterward, she continued to visit the hospital and formed the organization that unites gold star mothers still today.

We always honor our Military and First respnders.

Attend a ceremony or organize an event in your community. Remember the fallen in your family, share their stories and offer support to members of the gold star family. Use #GoldStarMothersDay to post on social media.

Gold Star Mother's Day Garden Flag 12.5×18'' Army Military Marine Corps Family Memorial Day Veterans Day 4th of July Decoration for Outdoor Lawn Yard Decor
Gold Star Mother’s Day Garden Flag 12.5×18” Army Military Marine Corps Family Memorial Day Veterans Day 4th of July Decoration for Outdoor Lawn Yard Decor
Gold Star Families: By Iman Nasser
Gold Star Families: By Iman Nasser

NATIONAL SOUTH CAROLINA DAY

Jensperspectiveblog 2 Comments

On August 31, National South Carolina Day recognizes The Palmetto State and her unique landscapes, bold personalities, and long history.

Catawbas and Cherokee were some of the first to greet Spanish and French explorers in the 16th century. Their tribes dotted the land with villages. The Englished established the first successful settlement near present-day Charleston. Named Carolina initially after King Charles I, the colony later split into North and South Carolina in 1710. Following in the footsteps of the previous colonies, South Carolina would become the eight state to ratify the constitution.

Though South Carolina may have been more removed from some of the Revolutionary concerns than states like Massachusetts and Connecticut, it hosted some pivotal, if seemingly small battles. They all begin with the hard-fought and devastating loss at Charles Town. What is now known as the Siege of Charleston, is the largest battle to ever take place in the state. Not even Civil War battles compare. While the British claimed the city and some 5,000 prisoners, the course was set for victories to the west at Cowpens and King’s Mountain.

Slavery and the Civil War play a significant role in South Carolina’s complex social, political and economic profile. Much of the beauty of South Carolina is reflected in their soulful music and emotive art expressing the voices of generations.

Harleston Green in Charleston established the first golf club in the United States in 1786.

With 187 miles of Atlantic coastline, South Carolina is more than ideal for a beach getaway. With idyllic oceanfront towns, historical tours, delicious seafood, and golf there is a little bit of adventure for everyone.

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HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalNorthCarolinaDay

Explore all of South Carolina’s beauty, culture, and history on August 31. Join us as we celebrate South Carolina’s hospitality, stunning landscapes, and dynamic people.  

Use #NationalSouthCarolinaDay to share on social media.

Notable People

Francis Marion – Revolutionary – (1732 – February 27, 1795)

The Swamp Fox: How Francis Marion Saved the American Revolution Kindle Edition by John Oller  (Author)
The Swamp Fox: How Francis Marion Saved the American Revolution Kindle Edition

by John Oller  (Author)

Angelina (February 20, 1805 – October 26, 1879) and Sarah Grimke – Activist – (November 26, 1792 – December 23, 1873)

The Grimké Sisters from South Carolina: Pioneers for Women's Rights and Abolition 2nd Edition, Kindle Edition by Gerda Lerner  (Author) 
The Grimké Sisters from South Carolina: Pioneers for Women’s Rights and Abolition 2nd Edition, Kindle Edition

by Gerda Lerner  (Author) 

Kelly Miller – Mathematician – (July 18, 1863 – December 29, 1939)

Kelly Miller Mathematics
Kelly Miller

Mathematics

Julia Peterkin – Author – (October 31,1880 – August 10, 1961)

Julia Peterkin Author
Julia Peterkin

Author
Scarlet Sister Mary: A Novel (Brown Thrasher Books) Paperback – January 9, 2004 by Julia Peterkin (Author), A. J. Verdelle (Foreword)
Scarlet Sister Mary: A Novel (Brown Thrasher Books)

by Julia Peterkin (Author), A. J. Verdelle (Foreword)

Strom Thurmond – Governor – (December 5, 1902 – June 26, 2003)

Strom: The Complicated Personal and Political Life of Strom Thurmond Paperback – Illustrated, June 27, 2006 by Jack Bass  (Author), Marilyn W. Thompson (Author)
Strom: The Complicated Personal and Political Life of Strom Thurmond – Illustrated

by Jack Bass  (Author), Marilyn W. Thompson (Author)

Melvin Purvis – FBI Agent – (October 24, 1903 – February 29, 1960)

The Vendetta: Special Agent Melvin Purvis, John Dillinger, and Hoover's FBI in the Age of Gangsters Kindle Edition by Alston Purvis (Author) 
The Vendetta: Special Agent Melvin Purvis, John Dillinger, and Hoover’s FBI in the Age of Gangsters Kindle Edition

by Alston Purvis (Author) 

William Westmoreland – General – (March 26, 1914 – July 18, 2005)

Westmoreland: A Biography of General William C. Westmoreland Paperback – September 1, 1995 by Samuel Zaffiri (Author)
Westmoreland: A Biography of General William C. Westmoreland

by Samuel Zaffiri (Author)

James Brown – Musician – (May 3, 1933 – December 25, 2006 )

The One: The Life and Music of James Brown Kindle Edition by RJ Smith  (Author)
The One: The Life and Music of James Brown Kindle Edition

by RJ Smith  (Author)

Althea Gibson – Athlete – (August 25, 1927 – September 28, 2003)

Althea Gibson: The Story of Tennis' Fleet-of-Foot Girl Hardcover – Illustrated, January 21, 2020 by Megan Reid (Author), Laura Freeman  (Illustrator)
Althea Gibson: The Story of Tennis’ Fleet-of-Foot Girl Hardcover – Illustrated, January 21, 2020

by Megan Reid (Author), Laura Freeman  (Illustrator)


Chubby Checker – Singer – (October 3, 1941-)

The Very Best Of Chubby Checker Chubby Checker 
The Very Best Of Chubby Checker

Chubby Checker 

South Carolina Flavor

South Carolinians and southerners in particular like their iced tea. Finding a good sweet tea anywhere else in the country can be a challenge.

Another South Carolina feast is a Beaufort Stew. Also known as a Lowcountry Boil, this simple but flavorful dish combines shrimp, corn on the cob, sausage, and potatoes. Once boiled, the entire meal is served on a paper-covered table. Invite the whole family over and dive in for all the deliciousness!

Get one of the ultimate comfort foods in South Carolina. The Palmetto State specializes in baking macaroni and cheese that’s especially comforting and cheesy.

Black-eyed peas served with rice and bacon is transformed into a dish known as Hoppin’ John. In the South, Black-eyed peas are said to bring good luck when eaten on New Year’s Day.

The Southern delicacy of Pimento Cheese finds its way into high-class events or lazy afternoon picnics. It’s referred to as “Carolina caviar” and can be a garnish or a dip.

Editor's Picks
Editors Picks

NATIONAL AIRBORNE DAY

Jensperspectiveblog 4 Comments

National Airborne Day on August 16th honors the military’s airborne divisions of the Armed Forces.    

August 16, 1940, marks the date of the first official Army parachute jump at Ft. Benning, Georgia. The successful jump validated the innovative concept of inserting U.S. ground combat forces behind a battle line by parachute. These sky soldiers represent some of the most prestigious and expertly trained forces in the United States Army. 

Vintage Tin Sign Airborne The Finest Us Army Metal Poster Retro Art Wall Decoration for Home Club Cabin Garage Store Bar Cafe Farm 12" X 8" Brand: annekilly
Vintage Tin Sign Airborne The Finest Us Army Metal Poster Retro Art Wall Decoration for Home Club Cabin Garage Store Bar Cafe Farm 12″ X 8″
Brand: annekilly

In the U.S. Army currently, two airborne divisions operate. The 82nd Airborne Division out of Ft. Bragg, North Carolina began as an infantry division. During World War I, the 82nd Division activated on 25 August 1917 at Camp Gordon. In 1918, they earned the nickname All American for the composition of their division. Since the soldiers came not only from all across the country, but several were immigrants, too. The 82nd Division represented all of America as few other divisions did at the time.

The second and still active airborne division had a short-lived beginning. During World War I, the 101st Airborne Division organized for a short while on 2 November 1918. However, the war ended shortly after. During World War II, the Screaming Eagles were activated again on 16 August 1942 at Camp Claiborne, Louisiana. They currently make their home at Ft. Campbell, Kentucky.

Both units have served around the world in combat, peacekeeping, and humanitarian missions.

NATIONAL AIRBORNE DAY HISTORY

President George W. Bush proclaimed National Airborne Day on August 14, 2002. On August 3, 2009, the US Senate of the 111th Congress recognized National Airborne Day with Senate Resolution 235.

Brand: Army Caps US Army 82nd Airborne OD Green Ball Cap
Brand: Army Caps
US Army 82nd Airborne OD Green Ball Cap

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HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalAirborneDay

The United States military in all of its branches provides the most professional military men and women of the world.

Thank a paratrooper and use #NationalAirborneDay to post on social media.

Officially Licensed US Army 101st Airborne Division Screaming Eagles Embroidered Black Adjustable Baseball Cap
Officially Licensed US Army 101st Airborne Division Screaming Eagles Embroidered Black Adjustable Baseball Cap

Movie Lists

Jensperspectiveblog 2 Comments

Curating a movie list is like opening a treasure chest filled with cinematic gems tailored to match the mood and occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a spooky thrill with Halloween classics or seeking the warmth of love in a romance film, these lists are designed to enhance your viewing experience. From family-friendly adventures that bring everyone together to the timeless allure of musicals and mysteries that keep you guessing, each list captures the essence of its genre or theme, ensuring there’s something for every type of movie lover.

Celebrations and special occasions also get their own spotlight with themed lists for Valentine’s Day, holidays, and patriotic events, among others. Whether you’re a fan of iconic franchises like Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, or James Bond, or you’re gearing up for a dedicated movie night, these lists offer a curated selection that pays homage to the best of cinema. Dive into the cinematic universe of Marvel heroes, enjoy the epic scores on National Filmscore Day, or explore global cinema for a taste of stories from around the world—these movie lists are your guide to unforgettable movie nights and beyond.

NATIONAL BOOK LOVERS DAY

Jensperspectiveblog 1 Comment

National Book Lovers Day on August 9th harnesses all the excitement bibliophiles feel about books into one celebration. 

A day for all those who love to read, National Book Lovers Day encourages you to find your favorite reading place, a good book (whether it be fiction or non-fiction) and read the day away.

As we are celebrating Romance Awareness in August, try a romance novel. I know, once upon a time I made that face too. I’m not talking about your grandmother’s books. There are a great many romance authors out there. With so many genres available picking just one might become a challenge. I listed some of my favorites below. This is in no way a complete list of what’s out there.

Romance

Julia Quinn
Diana Galbaldon
Suzanne Brockmann
Sherrilyn McQueen (a.k.a  Kenyon)
Lisa Kleypas
J.M. Madden
Suzanne Enoch

Fiction

James Patterson
Patricia Cornwell
David Balducci
Janet Evanovich

Steven King
John Grisham
Dean Koontz
J D Robb
Michael Connelly
Agatha Christie
Tolkien
George R. R. Martin
Harper Lee

Bibliophile – a person who has a great appreciation for or collects books.

Step back in time
  • The very first books used parchment or vellum (calf-skin) for the book pages.
  • The book covers were made of wood and often covered with leather.
  • Clasps or straps kept the books closed.
  • Public libraries appeared in the Middle Ages.
  • Public libraries often chained the books to a shelf or a desk to prevent theft.
Moving forward

Along with several recent developments, book manufacturers use digital printing. Book pages are printed using toner rather than ink. As a result of digital printing, print-on-demand opens up a whole new realm of publishing. In this case, distributors don’t print the books until the customer places the order.

Related Days to Celebrate

More and more, people read E-books. E-book (electronic book) refers to a book-length publication in digital form. They are usually available through the internet. However, they can also be found on CD-ROM and other systems. Read an E-book on a computer or via a portable book display device known as an e-book reader, such as a Kindle.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalBookLoversDay

Sit back, relax and READ! Don’t forget to share the joy of reading with young people in your life. Inspire them with your favorite novel or find out about the last book they took off the shelf. Read to the littlest of the up and coming readers, too. And share what your reading with us, too! Need more ways to celebrate? We’ve got them!

  • Shop for a new title to read or explore the shelves for one you would like to give.
  • Explore the shelves of used book stores. You might find an out of print tome that might become the highlight of your collection.
  • Discover the world of online book stores. Their stock includes a variety of subjects and collectible items, too. 
  • Record a video of you reading a story for a child in your life. 
  • Randomly give a book to someone. 

Use #NationalBookLoversDay to post on social media and spread the word.

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite, 16 GB (newest gen) – Now with a larger display, adjustable warm light, increased battery life, and faster page turns – Agave Green #NationalBookLoversDay
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite, 16 GB (newest gen) – Now with a larger display, adjustable warm light, increased battery life, and faster page turns – Agave Green
Amazon Kindle (newest gen) – The lightest and most compact Kindle, with extended battery life, adjustable front light, and 16 GB storage – Black#NationalBookLoversDay
Amazon Kindle (newest gen) – The lightest and most compact Kindle, with extended battery life, adjustable front light, and 16 GB storage – Black
Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet (newest gen) built for relaxation, 10.1" vibrant Full HD screen, octa-core processor, 3 GB RAM, 32 GB, Lilac#NationalBookLoversDay
Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet (newest gen) built for relaxation, 10.1″ vibrant Full HD screen, octa-core processor, 3 GB RAM, 32 GB, Lilac
Amazon Fire 7 Kids tablet (newest gen) ages 3-7. Top-selling 7" kids tablet on Amazon | ad-free content with parental controls included, 10-hr battery, 16 GB, Blue#NationalBookLoversDay
Amazon Fire 7 Kids tablet (newest gen) ages 3-7. Top-selling 7″ kids tablet on Amazon | ad-free content with parental controls included, 10-hr battery, 16 GB, Blue
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