BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) — The Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs and the Blue Star Mothers of Louisiana came together to honor the families of fallen servicemen and women. Gold Star Family Day, observed annually, is a time of reflection and remembrance for those who have lost loved ones in service to their country. This year’s commemoration brought together families, community members, and veterans to recognize the ultimate sacrifice made by these heroes and their families. “Gold Star Mothers and Families Day allows us to not only recognize those family members who have lost heroes while they served their country, but it also allows us to honor those family members as well,” said Larry Williams, Director of Veterans Outreach for the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs. Highway shooting in Baton Rouge leaves one dead, car crash leads to others hurt The event provided a sense of comfort and community for grieving families, offering them a space to come together, share their experiences and heal. Natalie Truax, a representative of the Blue Star Mothers of Louisiana, spoke about the importance of remembering these sacrifices. “In the business of day-to-day life, we take for granted everything that we have, everything we do, that we’re able to be here without a threat. We take that for granted, and it’s their sacrifice that contributes to that, allowing us to live freely,” Truax said. The reading of the fallen soldiers’ names served as a poignant reminder that their legacy endures, and their service is not forgotten. For families like Keri Heart, a Gold Star family member, hearing their loved ones’ names aloud is a meaningful tribute. “Being around others who have also been through the same things that I have, it's a camaraderie that you don't often see. But it's also a club that, unfortunately, none of us ever wanted to join. Being here today, surrounded by others who have experienced the same loss, is very comforting,” Heart shared. As the sound of a trumpet filled the air, the Baton Rouge community reflected on the sacrifices made by so many, vowing to keep their memory alive. Gold Star Family Day not only honors fallen servicemen and women but also ensures that their families continue to feel the support of their community. Latest News Baton Rouge church hosts voting event for 59th anniversary of Voting Rights Act Gold Star Family Day honors fallen heroes in Baton Rouge 3 California firefighters hurt in crash while heading to help Hurricane Helene victims Louisiana weather: NHC watching for potential tropical development in Caribbean next week; Atlantic remains active Chastain passes Truex on late restart to win NASCAR Cup Series race at Kansas Speedway