His Story Begins: September 16, 1974
September 16, 2021Do You Have A Dream?
November 9, 2021
On June 24, 1928 twenty-five mothers met in Washington DC. What was the purpose of this meeting? Each of these moms had individual stories of their journey through motherhood, yet it was a united reason that brought them together to make this trip. They were seeking a federal charter from Congress to recognize the American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. It took eight, long years but on June 23, 1936, the 74th Congress published a resolution designating the last Sunday of September as Gold Star Mother’s Day.
In 1944 President Franklin D. Roosevelt stated, “There is nothing adequate which anyone in any place can say to those who are entitled to display the Gold Star in their windows. America lives in freedom because of the sacrifices of America’s finest citizens and of the mothers [fathers] who raised them.” Today, seventy-seven years after this statement was made, this sentiment remains true. I do not know what it is like to suffer the loss of a child. If you are a Gold Star Mom or Dad reading this, please know you are held close in thought as we remember the loss of your son or daughter who died serving our country.
Several years ago I wrote a poem in tribute to my mom on Mother’s Day titled ‘Warrior Queen‘*. I’m sure it doesn’t meet the poetic standards of literature, but that wasn’t my intent. It came from my heart as I reflected on my mom and Chris. They shared a special bond, and he had an endearing way of referring to her as “Ma”, which brings a smile to my face. In recognition of my mother and Chris on this Gold Star Mother’s Day, I wanted to share the rhyming thoughts I assembled in 2016.
What does it mean to be a Warrior Queen
It’s a lifetime of care and love that often goes unseen.
For there is no glory at the very start,
when a mother first hears the beat of a brave heart.
Days turn to weeks as she watches her belly grow.
She will soon deliver a hero the world has yet to know.
Her heart melted when handed her sweet bundle of joy.
It was love at first sight for this mother and baby boy.
Protecting and guiding little steps is no easy feat.
The challenge of parenting can be bittersweet.
Diapers to change and tears to wipe away.
Picnics, birthdays and ball games to watch and play.
In the blink of an eye, he donned cap and gown.
His quest for adventure meant he would soon be leaving town.
He felt alive with the sand between his toes and surfboard in hand.
The roar of the ocean was with him as he left to serve our homeland.
His mother continued her silent prayers for his body and soul.
The safe return of this grown, young man had become her goal.
Her quiet vigil through the years was with a heart resolute.
Perhaps this helped him conquer his fears to prepare for the final salute.
No more hugs, phone calls or letters home will she receive.
The tragic and lasting impact of war offers no reprieve.
The natural order of life has been defied at great cost.
She now joins the journey of mothers who have loved and lost.
No glamour, no glory but steadfast behind the scene.
THIS! is what it means… to be a Warrior Queen.
Soon,
Cindy
Proud Sister of Christopher George Campbell, US Navy
September 16, 1974 – 8/6/11
“The greatest casualty is being forgotten” – WWP
*NOTE: My poem was previously published by SOFREP and TAPS.
