Dear Colleagues,

In the near future, I intend to introduce a resolution recognizing and honoring Pennsylvania's Gold Star families during the Christmas season, a time traditionally associated with faith, family, gratitude, and togetherness.

For families who have lost a loved one in service to our nation, Christmas can be especially difficult. While many Americans gather around the Christmas tree, exchange gifts, and celebrate cherished traditions, Gold Star families are reminded of an empty chair at the table and the absence of a beloved son, daughter, husband, wife, father, mother, brother, or sister who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country.

Their loss is not confined to Memorial Day or Veterans Day. It is felt throughout the year, particularly during holidays, when families are together. The sacrifices of our fallen service members are rightly honored by a grateful nation, but we must also remember the families who continue to carry the burden of that sacrifice.

As a retired Army colonel with thirty years of military service and four combat deployments, I have witnessed firsthand the extraordinary devotion and resilience of our military families. Their service and sacrifices deserve our enduring gratitude, compassion, and respect.

This resolution will recognize the sacrifices of Gold Star families, encourage Pennsylvanians to remember and support them during the Christmas season, and reaffirm our Commonwealth's commitment to honoring those who gave their lives in service to the United States.

It is my hope that this resolution will serve as a gentle reminder that, amid the joy and celebration of Christmas, we should take time to remember those families for whom the season brings both cherished memories and profound sorrow.

I respectfully invite my colleagues, particularly those who have served in our nation's Armed Forces, to join me in honoring Pennsylvania's Gold Star families and ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten.

Thank you for your consideration and support.

Senator Doug Mastriano
Chairman, Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee
33rd Senatorial District