The members of the Gold Star Mothers Maryland Chapter were invited by Ms. Tyra Nelson, American Legion Auxiliary D.C. Site Director and Ms. Mayvee Smith, ALA Unit 233 President to volunteer at their 2nd Annual American Legion Family Active-Duty Military Baby Shower. Janice Chance and Donna Robinson represented the MD Chapter. They joined approximately 22 volunteers that included ALA Units, TAL Post members in the Washington D.C. and MD area, the ALA National President, The American Legion National Security Officer’s and other National Officers. Janice’s daughter Iraq Veteran Capt. Jenine Melton U.S Army also volunteered. She represented the Kappa Epsilon Psi Military Sorority. The shower was for expectant service members and/or spouses Rank E5 and below, O-1 and O-2. There were approximately 60 expectant moms according to Ms Nelson. Many of them were joined by their spouse or family members. They participated in special games, like Baby Bingo, were treated to lunch and they received many donated gifts. The MD Chapter and the National American Gold Star Mothers Executive board each donated requested shower gifts valued at $1000 in addition to other organizations. Several other organizations also gave In Kind and monetary gifts. At the event were representatives from other organizations who gave gifts to the moms: Blue Star Families (variety of gifts); Operation Homefront (Quilts); United Through Reading (Books) and the New Parents program Bowling Airforce Base provided new mother information pamphlets. There was much laughter and excitement. The ALA motto was “Every Baby Deserves A Big Celebration.” Special Thanks to Ms. Nelson who organized and coordinated the event with the assistance of Ms. Smith, the support of the ALA members and TAL Post 238 leaders who hosted the Baby Shower.
