April 5

Gold Star Spouses Day

On Gold Star Spouses Day, we honor and remember the sacrifices of military spouses who have lost their loved ones in service to our country.

Yearly Date
April 5
Observed in
United States
Holiday Calendar
Last updated February 7, 2026 by the Holiday Calendar Team
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Introduction

Get ready to honor and pay tribute to the brave spouses of fallen servicemen and women on Gold Star Spouses Day on April 5. This day recognizes the sacrifices made by the husbands and wives of military personnel who have died while serving their country. It was first established in 2010 by Congress as a way to show support and appreciation for these individuals who have endured so much loss and hardship. It's a time to come together as a nation and show our gratitude for their courage, strength, and resilience. So let's take a moment to celebrate these unsung heroes and their unwavering love for their country and their partners.

Gold Star Spouses Day Timeline

1947
Gold Star Lapel Button
The Gold Star Lapel Button was approved by Congress to recognize the families of fallen servicemembers.
1950
Gold Star Wives Founded
Gold Star Wives of America was established to support widows and widowers of military personnel killed in service.
1984
Recognition from President Reagan
President Ronald Reagan issued a proclamation acknowledging the importance of Gold Star wives.
1993
Survivor's Pension Act
The Survivor's Pension Act started offering financial support for surviving spouses and children of deceased veterans of wartime service.
2010
Gold Star Spouses Day Established
The Gold Star Spouses Day was officially established by Congress to be observed annually on April 5.

How to Celebrate Gold Star Spouses Day

1

Honor a Gold Star Spouse

Reach out to a Gold Star Spouse in your community and show them your appreciation. This could be through a small gift, a homemade meal, or simply spending time with them and listening to their story.

2

Attend a memorial service

Many communities hold memorial services on Gold Star Spouses Day to honor and remember those who have lost their military spouse. Attend one of these services to pay your respects and show your support.

3

Volunteer at a veterans organization

Use this day as an opportunity to give back to veterans and their families by volunteering at a local veterans organization. This could be anything from helping with administrative tasks to organizing events for Gold Star Spouses.

4

Donate to a Gold Star Spouse charity

Support the families of fallen service members by making a donation to a charity that specifically supports Gold Star Spouses. This is a great way to show your appreciation and make a positive impact.

5

Share the stories of Gold Star Spouses

Spread awareness and honor Gold Star Spouses by sharing their stories on social media or through word of mouth. This can help educate others about the sacrifices these families have made and highlight their strength and resilience.

Why Gold Star Spouses Day is Important

A

Honoring the sacrifices of military spouses

Gold Star Spouses Day is a day to recognize and honor the spouses of fallen service members. These brave individuals have experienced immense loss and sacrificed so much for their country, yet often go unrecognized. This holiday gives us an opportunity to show our appreciation and support for them.

B

Bringing awareness to the struggles of Gold Star Spouses

Gold Star Spouses Day also serves as a reminder to the public of the difficulties and challenges faced by these spouses on a daily basis. It brings attention to the mental, emotional, and financial toll that comes with losing a partner in the military and helps bring support and resources to those in need.

C

Supporting Gold Star Families

Besides honoring spouses, Gold Star Spouses Day also recognizes the sacrifices made by children, parents, and other family members of fallen service members. It's a reminder to show support and compassion for these families who have lost a loved one while serving our country.

Holiday Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Apr 5
Wednesday
2024
Apr 5
Friday
2025
Apr 5
Saturday
2026
Apr 5
Sunday
2027
Apr 5
Monday