Gold Star Families Commemorated at Redstone Arsenal Event

REDSTONE ARSENAL, Ala. (WHNT) — A Gold Star service flag is now displayed at the U.S. Army Space and MissileDefense Command.

A Gold Star family refers to those who have lost a close relative during their active service with the military. With Memorial Day nearing, several such families gathered at Redstone Arsenal.

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“More than 6,000 Gold Star family members reside in the state of Alabama, and thus we welcome all who wish to participate and join us,” stated Lt. Gen. Sean Gainey.

The flag-raising ceremony at the Space and Missile Defense Command has turned into a custom.

"This is a chance to prioritize the families and truly show them respect, making sure they understand how much we care," Gainey stated.

Jim Ginas went to pay tribute to his son Jimmy, who was a member of the Green Berets.

"We simply miss him greatly, and time does not alter that," Ginas stated.

He expressed gratitude for having the chance to honor his son, but he attended Thursday's event primarily to show solidarity with other Gold Star families.

Ginas stated, "That profound hurt will subside." She added, "In my experience, we frequently employ this approach—don't hesitate to mention their name. There's no reason to shy away from discussing them. Hold onto your memories of them. After all, that's exactly what they would have wanted."

Gainey stated that the families of deceased servicemen will forever remain an integral part of the Army family.

"We'll always have concern for them, and we will always be available to provide support," Gainey stated.

The Gold-Star service banner will be flown beneath the American flag at the location of the U.S. Army Space and MissileDefense Command up until Memorial Day.

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