HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) — State leaders dedicated a new monument to Gold Star families on Thursday in Harrisburg.
The Gold Star Families Memorial Monument is on the State Capitol grounds at Commonwealth Avenue and Walnut Street. It honors the families of servicemen and women who died during active-duty military service.
The Central PA Chapter of Gold Star Mothers joined leaders to unveil the monument. They each laid yellow tulips at the base of it.
“The monument is a symbol that this community honors the families that have a loved one that, in the words of Abraham Lincoln, ‘Gave the last full measure of devotion.’ It makes the statement that the community cares and has made a commitment to honor and remember our Gold Star family members,” said Tim Schumacher, president and CEO of the Hershel “Woody” Williams Medal of Honor Foundation.
There are 154 Gold Star family monuments in all 50 states, with four in Pennsylvania.
Lawmakers passed a bill to create the monument in 2024. Rep. Joe Kerwin (R-Dauphin) introduced the bill after he returned from active duty.
“It is important these grieving families have a place to gather, reflect, pray and share in fellowship with one another,” Kerwin said at the time.
The Capitol will add another monument as the 250th anniversary of America approaches. Lawmakers passed a bill last year to construct a Semiquincentennial Celebration Bell outside of the East Wing between the fountain and the entrance to the grounds.
