Through mutual respect and similar needs and goals, GSW has formed partnerships in order to fulfill member needs, enhance our membership  and communities.  These partnerships are directly related to GSW purposes.  Some of the major national partnerships are listed here. 

Snowball Express/Gary Sinise Foundation

Our partnership with Snowball Express has its roots in the first Snowball Express function held in San Diego.  This event provides a yearly holiday event where the children and surviving spouses are provided with a holiday event. This event is meant as a way to revitalize their holiday spirit in light of their losses.  GSWs currently "pack” the snowballs at various airports nationwide, and provide assistance at airports and going away parties.  The event is currently held at Disney World.  GSW provides volunteers to staff the resource center during the annual event.  GSW provides support to surviving spouses attending the function, resources, and is regarded as a go-to source for Spousal benefits and legislation.  GSW assists during the event 24 hours a day to spouses needing an ear, help and assistance with problems, and advice. GSW is also encouraged to arrange for local ‘snowflake events’ during the year in support of surviving children.  Note:  2020 Snowball will be virtual only.

Snowball Express: For children of fallen military heroes from Snowball Express on Vimeo.

Vietnam 50th Commemoration Partner

The Commemorative Partner Program is designed for federal, state and local communities, veterans' organizations and other nongovernmental organizations to assist a grateful nation in thanking and honoring our Vietnam Veterans and their families. Commemorative Partners are encouraged to participate in the Commemoration of the Vietnam War by planning and conducting events and activities that will recognize the Vietnam Veterans and their families' service, valor, and sacrifice.

Events and activities should be dignified, memorable occasions that show a sensitivity and appreciation for the solemnity of war and the losses suffered by many. Commemorative Partners should communicate how their events will achieve the Congressionally-mandated objectives of the program. Events or activities should meet one or more of the Congressionally-mandated objectives of the program, and as a minimum, with an emphasis on objective one.

1. To thank and honor veterans of the Vietnam War, including personnel who were held as prisoners of war or listed as missing in action, for their service and sacrifice on behalf of the United States and to thank and honor the families of these veterans.
2. To highlight the service of the Armed Forces during the Vietnam War and the contributions of Federal agencies and governmental and non-governmental organizations that served with, or in support of, the Armed Forces.
3. To pay tribute to the contributions made on the home front by the people of the United States during the Vietnam War.
4. To highlight the advances in technology, science, and medicine related to military research conducted during the Vietnam War.
5. To recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by the allies of the United States during the Vietnam War.

GSW works in assisting a grateful nation in thanking and honoring our Vietnam Veterans and their families. 

Wreaths Across America

Wreaths Across America’s purpose is to Remember those who have served and died, Honor our veterans and Teach about the freedoms we enjoy and the sacrifices made by our veterans to protect those freedoms.

GSW assists Wreaths Across America through a cooperative effort to memorialize Veterans, especially our deceased spouses.  Chapters may participate in fund raising by selling wreaths. Members also participate by assisting in Escort to Arlington, participating in ceremonies at state capitols and placing wreaths at national, state and private cemeteries across the nation.

Gold Star Children

 

The documentary film, "Gold Star Children” chronicles the journey of two generations of children who lost a parent serving in the military – those who lost a parent in Vietnam, and those who lost a parent serving in more recent conflicts such as Iraq or Afghanistan.

While America honors the patriotism of these brave families who have paid the ultimate price for our freedom, for too long the stories of the children left behind by our fallen warriors have not been heard. This documentary film interweaves generational perspectives and history, through the perspectives of the now-adult children who lost fathers in Vietnam, with the voices of today’s children impacted by military loss.

Please support Gold Star Children by purchasing the film, thank you!  Gold Star Children is available on digital download and now on DVD via Goldcrest Films and the 501(c)3 non-profit Gold Star Children at www.goldstarchildren.org