The Blue Star Mothers organization supports military from enlistment “until they leave this earth.”
The Blue Star Mothers is a nonprofit organization that provides support for mothers who have sons or daughters who serve, or have served, the United States Armed Forces. It was originally formed during World War I. Our chapter, LA 1, was created in 2005. Not only do we provide support for each other, but together, we are a strong supporter of those serving.
We are the only local organization that actively supports our military from the time they enlist until they “leave this earth.” Our chapter does this through numerous events and ceremonies including but not limited to Our Community Salutes, where we recognize high school seniors enlisting in the military upon graduation.
We plant 11,000 American flags at the Louisiana Capitol during Memorial Day to honor and remember the sacrifices of our fallen. We visit VA nursing homes to show our support to older veterans and let them know we continue to appreciate their service.
We host the annual Gold Star Mother’s Day luncheon, send numerous care packages throughout the year to troops all over the world and help veterans in financial need. We also give deserving veterans scholarships to help transition back into civilian life and further their careers.
The Mission
Our mission is to continue in the tradition of Blue Star Mothers of America: To answer the call of families in need, promote patriotism through education and bring to the forefront the sacrifices of our military and their families. We hope to promote awareness and foster the support of our troops through sponsorship and participation in community projects, patriotic rallies, parades and veteran ceremonies.
What would you do with 100 volunteer hours and $5,000?
Our next big event is the nationwide Wreaths Across America, where we lay wreaths on the graves of the fallen. While we have participated for many years, we have only been able to purchase wreaths for about 1,600 gravesites annually. The cemetery rests 5,200 veterans, and each deserves a wreath. It is our hope to cover them all.