It did not start out as the best of days

But what can we do about it, this is Gold Star Mothers Day!

Gold Star Mother President Molly Morel and PNP Terry Davis place wreath at The Wall.

The wreath has been placed at The Wall and now we all sing

That the last Sunday in September shall hereafter be designated and known as “Gold Star Mother’s Day,” and it shall be the duty of the President to request its observance as provided for in this resolution.” Proclamation by the President Franklin D. Roosevelt of the United States, September 14, 1940.

Gold Star Mother President Molly Morel, behind wreath, all pause for a photograph before heading to Arlington National Cemetery

The bus has arrived in Section 60 of Arlington National Cemetery where a large number of Iraq and Afghanistan heroes have been laid to rest

Gold Star Parents Dave and Becky Lalush at their only son Michael grave site.

Dave Lalush remembering his son, Michael

Cynthia Hardegree Kruger spends a few minutes with her son, Army Sgt. Michael C. Hardegree who died September 10, 2007 serving During Operation Iraqi Freedom

Gold Star Mother Karen Meredith who son 1st Lt. Ken Ballard was killed in Najaf, Iraq on May 30, 2004

Gold Star Mothers with Vietnam Veterans of America, Delaware County PA Chapter 67 Honor Guard.

The Presidents Own are present

Vietnam Veterans of America, Delaware County PA Chapter 67 Honor Guard.

Norma Luther National 1st Vice President opening ceremonies

16th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Carlton W. Kent was the Guest speaker.

Chaplain Lt. Col. Ken Godfrey, US Army leads us with the invocation.

Jennifer Jackman reads the Presidential proclamation.

Gold Star Mother President Molly Morel address the audience. Her son Captain Brent L. Morel of 1st Recon Bn. Marines died in combat actions April 7, 2004, during the first offensive in Fallujah as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Norma Luther introducing the guest speaker 16th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Carlton W. Kent.

Gold Star Mother President Molly Morel and Sergeant Major Carlton W. Kent enjoying the moment

Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Carlton W. Kent addresses the audience on the 70th anniversary of Gold Star Mothers Day.

Chaplain Lt. Col. Ken Godfrey, US Army leads us with the closing prayer

Wreath laying ceremony at 'The Tomb of the Unknowns'

Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Carlton W. Kent and Gold Star Mother President Molly Morel place wreath at 'The Tomb of the Unknowns'

American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. A federally chartered nonprofit organization comprises Mothers who lost a son or daughter during a major U.S. conflict, strategic military area, or while in service to the United States. Its 150 chapters work to perpetuate the ideals of Americanism for which their children so gallantly fought and died.