Chapter 1
BLUE STAR BANNER
The Two Rivers Elks Lodge #1380 and the Two Rivers American Legion Post #165 work in association with our Wisconsin Blue Star Mothers-Chapter 1 to provide blue star banners to our members as well as Manitowoc and Kewaunee County, WI residents who are parents or spouses of active duty military personnel. It is an American tradition to display a blue star banner in the home when a loved one is proudly serving in the United States military.
The Blue Star Banner was designed and patented in 1917 by World War I army Captain Robert L. Queisser of the 5th Ohio Infantry. Queisser's two sons served on the front lines. His banner quickly became the unofficial symbol for parents with children in active military service.
On September 24, 1917, an Ohio congressman read the following into the Congressional Record: "The mayor of Cleveland, the Chamber of Commerce, and the governor of Ohio have adopted this service flag. The world should know of those who give so much for liberty. The dearest thing in all the world to a father and mother is their children."
Today, families display these banners when they have a loved one serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Each blue star represents one family member serving. A banner can have up to five stars.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
©2010 Blue Star Mothers of Wisconsin, Chapter 1. Images provided by Two Rivers Elks and The American Legion. Contact webmaster