Many people are aware of the significance of a Blue Star banner signifying a member of the family serving in the Armed Forces and have heard about the Gold Star Banner given to the families of those who have suffered the loss of a loved one serving in the military.

But a similar program with a similar distinguished history is being revived as a means of recognizing and aiding those who have been injured while serving in the military.

The Silver Star Families of America has established a program to provide Silver Star banners and flags to those injured or ill as a result of service in the armed forces.

Other colors were considered, but according to the Silver Star Families of America the use of Silver for wounded started in 1917 and was adopted for use in several states. After many years the Silver Star fell into disuse.  

According to Julie Muehle of Horicon, the return of the Silver Star is more than symbolic.

Muehle, the Wisconsin coordinator for Silver Star Families of America, said the small group getting organized in Wisconsin has done a great deal in the last year.

That has included visiting the Veterans Administration Hospitals in Madison and Milwaukee, holding fundraisers  to purchase items for veterans and their families and speaking to veteran's organizations.

A member of the Juneau American Legion, Muehle said the organization hopes to compliment the efforts of other groups who assist and support veterans and active military and their families.

"This is open to anyone who wants to help," Muehle said.

The organization is entirely volunteer and is active in 46 states. Muehle said that about 5 percent of everything donated is used for administrative costs. Complete financial records are available at the organization's Web site.

"The organization works hard at making sure that everything that comes in goes out to where it is needed," she said.

The 501c3 group has been active in Wisconsin for about 18 months and was founded nationally in 2005. Muehle said she became involved after a coworker from Iowa told her about the group's work.

Muehle said she would welcome any inquiries from those who want to volunteer or learn more about the organization, as well as those who know of someone who deserves a Silver Star Banner.

She can be reached at 920-382-4028 or ay myjules566@yahoo.com.

The Web site for Silver Star Families of America is http://www.silverstarfamilies.org