By Barbara Scott
Staff Writer
“We strive to take care of our military veterans, whether they are at home, on active duty or in a nursing home — we try to stay with them right to the end,” stated Kathy Robinson, Stockholm American Legion Post Auxiliary president.
Aroostook Republican photo/Barb Scott
Sharon Anderson recently received the American Legion Blue Star CertificateAward from the Perkins/Plourde American Legion Post in Stockholm. The award established during World War I, is presented to mothers whose children are serving active duty in a wartime campaign, and historically have been displayed in a window at their residence. Anderson’s son, Patrick Lausier is currently on active military duty with the U.S. Army. Presenting the award to Anderson are, from left, Stockholm American Legion Adjutant Herman Fisher and Rudy St. Peter, commander.
Robinson’s statement was made prior to the recent presentation of a Blue Star Award to Sharon Anderson by Stockholm American Legion Adjutant Herman Fisher and Commander Rudy St. Peter. Anderson’s son, Patrick Lausier, is currently on active duty with the U.S. Army.
The Blue Star Award originated circa 1917 during World War I with a Blue Star Banner being given to mothers whose family members were away on active military duty during the war. The banner with the blue star was hung in a window or doorway recognizing the absence of the family member(s).
According to Stockholm American Legion Adjutant Fisher, who related the history of this significant award/banner to those attending a recent dinner event at the Post Home, sometime during or following WW II, the award had been phased out.
Fisher stated that approximately 20 years ago, the American Legion, as a national organization, had re-established the imiportant program.
