Lighting Honors the Families of American Service Members Who Sacrificed Their Lives in the Line of Duty

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that 14 landmarks across New York will be illuminated with gold lights on Sunday, September 25 in honor of Gold Star Mother's and Family's Day.  

"On Gold Star Mother's and Family's Day, we as a Nation are reminded that the freedom we enjoy every day does not come without sacrifice," Governor Hochul said. "New York State will never forget the sacrifice of our heroes and patriots who perished in the line of duty, and we will continue to provide the highest level of support and services for our Gold Star Mothers and Families."

Each year the last Sunday in September is nationally recognized as Gold Star Mother's and Family's Day. Gold Star Families are those who have lost a loved one who was serving during a time of conflict. The term "Gold Star" was used during World War I and referred to a Gold Star being affixed over the Blue Star of the United States Service Flag.  

State capitals across the country recognize Gold Star Mother's and Families on this day of remembrance by lighting luminaries or buildings in gold to honor these families' sacrifices.  

New York State has several programs for Gold Star Parents to ensure continuous services and assistance are provided for those who have given so much. Some of these include the Gold Star Parent Annuity program, and New York's Military Enhanced Recognition Incentive and Tribute - or MERIT - Scholarship for families of service members who lost their lives while serving this nation. Additionally, the State continues to partner with Gold Star organizations throughout the State, as well as local County Veteran Service Organizations to increase awareness of programs to assist Gold Star Families.  

Landmarks to be lit include:  

    One World Trade Center
    Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
    Kosciuszko Bridge
    The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
    State Education Building
    Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
    Empire State Plaza
    State Fairgrounds - Main Gate & Expo Center
    Niagara Falls
    The "Franklin D. Roosevelt" Mid-Hudson Bridge
    Albany International Airport Gateway
    The Lake Placid Olympic Jumping Complex
    MTA LIRR - East End Gateway at Penn Station
    Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal  

Viviana DeCohen, Director of the New York State Division of Veterans' Services, said, "Gold Star Mother's and Families understand the meaning of service before self and embody this philosophy each day in their continued work to honor the legacy of their loved ones who made the ultimate sacrifice for our State and Nation. It is our solemn duty and honor to ensure they receive the highest quality support and care which we strive each day to continue providing for them."