On September 29, 2025, President and Mrs. Trump commemorated Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day by hosting a Gold Star families Reception at the White House. A select number of families from across the United States were invited to join him, a few of his cabinet level officials, and the Joint Chiefs. In attendance from the Maryland Gold Star Mothers Chapter were Donna Robinson and Janice Chance. Janice was given the honor to share about her family’s fallen hero Captain Jesse Melton III USMC, (KIA Afghanistan on 9/9/2008), and what it means to her to be a gold star family member. Prior to Janice’s message, President Trump welcomed the Gold Star families and gave a heartwarming message honoring our country’s fallen heroes and the families for their profound sacrifice.
Janice shared about the power of their faith in God, and the call to continue our heroes’ legacy through service and outreach. Janice was joined by her husband (stepdad) Charlton Chance, daughter Jenine Melton U.S. Army Iraq veteran, son Joshua Melton, daughter in law Peggy Melton, special friends and supporters Melody Knox, Earl Ruff, Jr., (Commandant US Marine Corp League Baltimore Detachment), and Cindy McGrew, (CEO and founder Operation Second Chance). Mrs. McGrew not only graced the family members with her presence, but her organization also provided limousine transportation. After Janice’s message, each Gold Star family stood when their hero’s name was read, and a candle was lit in their hero’s honor. Following the ceremony and dessert reception each family received a gift bag that contained the candle that was lit in memory of their hero, a special Presidential Gold Star Challenge coin, along with other gifts – symbols of gratitude and remembrance.
