Approximately 140 Gold Star Mothers, Associates and guests Nationwide attended the 86th National Convention in Louisville, Kentucky. The full agenda included a RED Friday service project of compiling backpacks for homeless Veterans. Items provided were toiletries, snacks, blankets and LOTS of love to these special heroes. The Maryland Chapter donated feminine products requested by the National Board members prior to convention. MD/DE Department Maryland Chapter and Wilmington Chapter were represented by Theresa Karlson, Yvonne Green and Donna Lowell, respectively. Gold Star Dad, Garry Green and Associate Bill Karlson attended as well. Virtual delegates included Janice Chance and Stephanie White. After a full day at our Business Meeting on Saturday, attendees and guests were treated to a River Boat cruise and dinner that evening. On Sunday, the 2023-2024 National Executive Board members were installed and shortly afterwards, a wonderful banquet was provided at Churchill Downs where the Kentucky Derby is held annually. Keynote speaker was Kim Mitchell, Senior Vice President for Military and Government Affairs at the National University System with entertainment provided by Angel Force USA. Many thanks to our 2022-2023 National Executive Board members for planning a memorable convention.
Congratulations to the newly installed officers:
President, Pam Stemple
1st Vice President, Patti Elliott
2nd Vice President, Annette Kirk
Treasurer, Rose Duvall
Secretary, Chanta Vasquez
Chaplain, Kathy Bordeau
National Service Officer, Joyce Armistead
Sergeant at Arms, Joyce Paulsen
Banner Guard, Jeanette Lazario
Flag Guard, Lina Moncar
Save the Date for our 2024 National Convention 20-23 June Colorado Springs, Colorado
“It’s all about the dash.”
