Chapter History
Blue Star Mothers (BSM) began in 1942 as an organization, however in 1917 an Army captain in Ohio started the idea when two of his sons served on the front lines in Europe. Membership in the organization peaked during WWII, fell during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and is growing once again across the nation.
Chapter 10 History
In March 2007, a meeting was held in Kasson, MN to discuss whether or not there would be interest in forming a Dodge County chapter of the Blue Star Mothers. There were several military mom’s in attendance that night that a chapter was immediately formed. The first meeting of Chapter 10 was held on April 12, 2007. There were approximately 5 people in attendance. Our current chapter roster has 16 people on it. We now meet in Rochester at the Eagles Club on the 2nd Tuesday of each month except in July.
National History
On January 22, 1942 the Flint News Advertiser printed a coupon asking Mothers of serviceman to return the coupon after filling it out.
The following February 1st, 300 mothers met in the Durant Hotel, in Flint Michigan. Captain George H. Maines, who had conceived the idea for this group, acted as the chair of this first meeting. It was decided that after receiving 1000 responses from the ad to form a permanent organization.
On February 6th the organization was reported on Congressional record. Chapters then formed in Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, New York, Pennsylvania, Oregon, California, Iowa and Washington. In June of 1960 the organization was chartered by congress.
Mothers volunteered throughout the tough times of World War II. They worked in hospitals, train stations, packed care packages for soldiers and were a working part of homeland security during times our time of war.
The organization waned in size over the years but has held together by mothers showing pride in both their children and country. In recent times we have began to grow in strength. Being attacked on our own soil has once again started mothers hanging flags in their windows at home proclaiming pride in the fact that we have children protecting our freedom during at time of war
Our organization not only provides support for active duty service personnel, promotes patriotism, assists Veterans organizations, and are available to assist in homeland volunteer efforts to help our country remain strong.
Flag History
When our sons and daughters enter the military they pledge to defend America with their life, and a Blue Star Banner may be displayed. Here is what the colors on the banners represent. The Red border of the Banner represents the blood shed by past Warriors in defending our Nation. The field of White symbolizes the purity of Spirit, the price of Peace that only a Warrior understands. The Blue Star signifies loyalty, honor and duty entrusted in our Defenders.
Our organization not only provides support for active duty service personnel, promotes patriotism, assists Veterans organizations, and are available to assist in homeland volunteer efforts to help our country remain strong.