Gold Star Mothers derived their name from the gold star they displayed on service flags in their homes and armbands during America's participation in World War I (1917 to 1918). Each gold star publicly represented a son or daughter killed in war service and brought recognition to women for sacrificing a child for the nation.

Initially, there was no specifically named organization, but rather a collection of unofficial women's groups formed for mutual companionship and comfort. Commemorative organizations such as the American Legion offered affiliation for the Gold Star women. The American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. (AGSM) received official Federal Charter in 1928.

Controversy over the Gold Star pilgrimages—government-subsidized visits to the European grave sites of those killed overseas during the war—reflected lingering doubts in America over what World War I had accomplished. Debates over where the dead should be buried after the...