Kim calls on fellow representatives to support Gold Star Families Memorial

HARRISBURG, May 26 – State Reps. Patty Kim, D-Dauphin, and Joe Kerwin, R-Dauphin, held a news conference to recognize the sacrifice of the families of our nation’s fallen soldiers and announce their efforts to erect a memorial on Capitol grounds in their honor.

"Behind every Gold Star lies a story of bravery, sacrifice and indomitable spirit. They have endured the unimaginable loss of their loved ones who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation,’ Kim said. “It is our solemn duty to honor and recognize their sacrifice, to offer our unwavering support, and to create a lasting memorial that symbolizes our deep gratitude.”

“A memorial for Gold Star families on our state Capitol grounds would give these families a place to gather while praying, remembering, consoling, healing and honoring. A memorial here would not only be a physical place for reflection, but also a permanent reminder of the sacrifices made by our heroic military men and women, as well as the grief that is endured by their families day in and day out,” Kerwin said.

The Dauphin County Honor Guard commenced the event with the Presentation of the Colors and closed with the Retiring of the Colors and a playing of Taps.

Speakers at the news conference included Gold Star family members, nonprofit leaders and the adjutant general of Pennsylvania.

“I belong to a club that no one wants to join,” said Diane Yoder. “Our biggest concern is keeping our loved one’s memory alive. I’m thankful the commonwealth is deciding to remember these heroes.”

“We must constantly raise their names and their lives so that the true cost of freedom is known,” said John Masco, Gold Star father. “We must remember that they paid the ultimate price.”

“Behind every folded flag is a family,” Maj. Gen. Mark J. Schindler said. “Families like the ones you’ve heard today have made a sacrifice so costly, so precious that it can never be repaid. We have an opportunity here today to preserve the memory and honor the sacrifice of our Gold Star Families.”