STARS OF HONOR
In the military community, we use different colored stars to indicate the way in which our military member lost their life. This is an honor that is not often talked about mainly for the reverence it holds in our community, but also because many believe it is one that no one should have to suffer through.
If the member is currently active duty, then the family is considered "Blue Star" for the duration of their service and can also be indicated with a yellow ribboned proudly displayed if the member is deployed.
A "Silver Star" is indicative of a member being wounded in action, but if the military member was killed in action then the family is considered "Gold Star."
Though all stars hold their place of honor there are two that do not get enough attention and those are the "White" and "Green" star Families.
A "White Star" family is one in which an Active Duty service member took their own life, but a "Green Star" indicates the service member was a Veteran who was lost due to the same circumstances.
It is estimated that over 22 Veterans die by suicide daily, leaving behind loved ones in need of assistance and care.
Here are some of their testimonials.
Samantha Bassett
On November 28, 2024, I became a green star widow, a term that signifies a widow who has lost a military member to suicide. My late husband, Mitchell Bassett Jr., was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. I endured not only his tragic death but also the pain of his prior suicide attempt just months before. Throughout our journey together, I faced the challenges of his alcoholism, depression, and PTSD, which he battled daily. My mission is to raise awareness about the devastating reality of veteran suicide, which claims the lives of at least 22 individuals each day. While my ultimate aim is prevention, l also seek to offer support to those impacted by this tragedy, helping them navigate their grief and loss. It is imperative to illuminate the consequences of such situations, as the effects of these 22 daily tragedies extend beyond the families left behind, permeating the wider community and demanding attention. By sharing my personal story, I aspire to encourage veterans who are struggling to seek help. There is immense strength and bravery in asking for and accepting assistance. Additionally, I aim to reassure families who are grieving that there is hope and light at the end of the tunnel. I am committed to providing help and support to those affected wherever possible.