Notes from Our Blue Star Members
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Kathy M Daudistel

"I became acquainted with the Blue Star Mothers group through a mutual acquaintance. I, along with the American Legion family from Kentucky, was working on the first Permanent Healing Field in the nation - located in Lawrenceburg, KY.  The Blue Star mothers offered to help in anyway they could, they even showed up for our first work party. Once I learned what they were all about, I decided to join the organization. 

I am an associate member - but have been involved in military organizations since I was a small child.   Currently - I am serving as the 2nd Vice President of the American Legion Auxiliary, Department of KY.    My father was a Korean War veteran and my uncle was a Vietnam veteran.  They are my heroes and helped convey to me what freedom really means and the price paid by everyone.    The American Legion family supports veterans in any way we can and are a perfect fit with the Blue Star Mother's organization. 

Before joining - I knew of people who were deployed but could not really relate to what the families of these people were going through.  The Blue Star Mothers is a wonderful support system for these families.   It is a place to come together to share your happy moments and your worries.   I am pleased to belong to such an amazing group of people."

Colleen Gagliardi

"I am a proud Blue Star Mother as my son, Cadet 2 Class Lucas Gagliardi, is currently a junior at the Air Force Academy.  When asked to write why I joined, I wasn't sure where to begin.  I had been looking for a way to support our military when I saw the article in the Recorder last year about the NKY Blue Star Mothers. 

Having grown up on Air Force bases, I have always had a great respect for our servicemen and women and for the sacrifices they and their families make.  Living on a military base during the Vietnam War, I also know how important it is for our troops to know we support them.

I feel blessed to part of NKY Blue Star Mothers Chapter 5.  The strength, support, caring and generosity of this group is amazing."

Polly Riley McNally

"I am a Marine Mom. My son—SSGT C W (Chuck) Riley is a career Marine. He is currently serving in Iraq. Although he has been deployed many times during the past 10 years, this is his first war deployment. I had no idea the fear and constant concern for his and his fellow Marines I would experience during this time.

I have only been involved with Blue Star Mother since October. There is such a comfort knowing I am in contact with other Mothers who understand my feelings and concerns. I am thankful for the friends I am making with our group and throughout Kentucky."

Paul Noel

"My wife and I went to see the 'Moving Wall Vietnam Veterans Memorial' this past August in Covington, KY.  While we were there, we met some of the Blue Star Mothers, who were helping with this event.  They took time to explain what they did and how we could join.

We have a son, who is an Engineer in the Army.  We are always looking for ways to support our active deployed forces and the Blue Star Mothers of America sounded like a good match for us.  My wife became a member and I am an associate member.  We have attended a several of the meetings and other events.

The biggest reward since joining was the day over 150 care packages were packed for shipment for the soldiers who are in harms way.  It was a real group effort and very satisfying knowing that these boxes might make life a little brighter for those soldiers.

My wife and I are very proud of our son and we are happy to be a part of the Blue Star Mothers.  They are not afraid to donate time and money to support our troops."

© 2006 Blue Star Mothers