Every May 1 Americans honor the sacrifices of the combat wounded, ill and dying service members on Silver Star Service Banner Day.
Across all branches of The United States military, Silver Star families are honored for their services with the symbol of the Silver Star Service Banner and Flag. We are encouraged on May 1 to take the opportunity to do the same.
The Silver Star is the third-highest award for bravery in combat given by the United States military.
Well-known recipients include Lt. Col. Oliver North, Gens. George S. Patton and Douglas MacArthur, Sens. John Kerry and John McCain and, controversially, Pat Tillman — the Arizona Cardinals football star turned Army Ranger who died as a result of friendly fire in Afghanistan. The Pentagon did not disclose those circumstances to his family or the public; they later were uncovered by the press.
HOW TO OBSERVE
Show gratitude and thank those who have returned from deployment wounded or ill. You can get involved with helping SSFOA members with fundraising and community awareness events in your area. Share your stories or experiences using #SilverStarService.
HISTORY
The history of the service banner dates back to 1917 or 1918, following the suggestions of Women’s Committee of the Council of National Defenses. The use of Blue and Gold Star Service Banners was formally adopted into the United States Code and made official, leaving the Silver Star Service Flag overlooked. A new Silver Star Service Flag and Banner were designed and were quickly accepted widely used throughout the United States. The United States House of Representatives passed H Res. 855, a stand-alone resolution on April 21, 2010, making the SSFOA Silver Star Service Banner official and making May 1 Silver Star Service Banner Day.
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