New Memorial in San Antonio Honors Gold Star Families
San Antonio is about to become home to a poignant tribute honoring the sacrifices made by military families in our community. A new Gold Star Families Memorial Monument is set to be unveiled at the corner of Veterans Memorial Park, situated at Jefferson and East Martin Street. This monument stands as a heartfelt reminder of the families who have paid the ultimate price — those whose military service members did not return from conflict or war.
A Labor of Love
Leading the charge for the creation of this memorial is Candy Martin, a retired Chief Warrant Officer 5 who is well-acquainted with the pain of losing a loved one in service to the country. In 2007, Candy became a Gold Star mother when her son, 1st Lt. Thomas M. Martin, was killed during service in Iraq. Since then, she has dedicated herself to ensuring that families like hers receive recognition and remembrance.
“We have World War II Gold Star children that live right here in San Antonio,” Candy shared, her voice filled with emotion. “They’ve gone their lifetime — they’re in their 80s, and they’ve lived knowing that their parent never came home from war. So now, this monument is for those families.”
Importance of the Tribute
The monument signifies much more than just a structure; it represents the profound losses that many families endure. “This monument and memorial is to remember that they grew up without a dad. They grew up without a sibling. And that’s what’s so important,” Candy emphasized. The Gold Star Families Memorial aims to bring awareness to the community about these sacrifices.
Collaboration and Support
Over the years, Candy has collaborated with various organizations to make the memorial a reality. The project was completed by the nonprofit Woody Williams Foundation, which has set up Gold Star Family monuments across all states and U.S. territories. It is worth noting that Texas alone hosts about 13 of these significant monuments.
Interestingly, studies from the Veterans Administration highlight that a larger number of Gold Star family members reside between Austin and San Antonio than any other geographical location in the United States. This makes the unveiling of the monument all the more relevant and poignant for those in the area.
Join the Unveiling Ceremony
Excitement is building for the unveiling ceremony, scheduled for Saturday, September 28, at 6 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Plaza, located at 451 Jefferson St. Candy anticipates that more than 200 people will attend, showcasing the community’s support and gratitude for the sacrifices made by Gold Star families.
This event not only serves as a tribute but also as an opportunity for the community to come together and share in the stories of bravery and loss. It’s a moment for reflection, gratitude, and acknowledgment of those who have and continue to bear the weight of their loved ones’ sacrifices.
A Lasting Legacy
The Gold Star Families Memorial Monument in San Antonio will not only serve as a physical tribute but also as a lasting legacy for generations to come. It will remind us all of the people who have sacrificed so much for our freedom. So, whether you are a military family or just a concerned citizen, this monument represents you and your respect for those who served.
Community Engagement
As the date approaches, the community is encouraged to mark their calendars and participate in this significant event. Sharing stories, connecting with families, and standing united in honor of our fallen heroes enriches the fabric of our society and reminds us of the strength found in remembrance. Come out and be a part of this touching tribute on September 28, and help ensure that the sacrifices of these families are never forgotten.
