Honor Those Who Made The Ultimate Sacrifice
The Milwaukee Gold Star Families Memorial Monument
The Hershel “Woody” Williams Medal of Honor Foundation is on a nationwide mission to build monuments that pay tribute to Gold Star Families for their enduring sacrifice and the ultimate sacrifice made by their loved ones. Join us in bringing this important honor to a permanent and beautifully prominent position overlooking Milwaukee’s lakefront. Your contribution toward building the monument provides area Gold Star Families and the entire community with a place to gather, reflect and share appreciation for those who have served us so bravely.
About the Milwaukee Monument
Gold Star Family Members
Gold Star Families are relatives of a fallen member of the military who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country and freedom. In 1918, President Woodrow Wilson authorized the suggestion made by the Women’s Committee of the Council of National Defenses that mothers who had lost a child who served in the war could wear a traditional black mourning armband with a gold gilt star. This approval led to the tradition practiced today of a gold star covering a blue star on the Gold Star Service Flag to show that a service member has passed.
Hershel “Woody” Williams
Before Woody joined the U.S. Marine Corps. in World War II, he delivered Western Union telegrams informing families of the death of their loved one. His lifelong devotion to veterans and their families began when he noted that, “recognition of the families of those lost in military service was very inadequate.”
After Pearl Harbor, Woody enlisted and served in the Battle of Iwo Jima with the 21st Marines, 3rd Marine Division. His heroism was recognized at the White House on October 5, 1945, receiving a Congressional Medal of Honor from President Truman.
Current Contributors & Organizational Support
Monetary Donors
- Frank Steeves
- Joseph F. Campbell
- John Eckl
Catalyst Construction
Ed & Diane Zore
Steve & Katie Beiser
Make a Contribution
There are currently 59 Gold Star Family Monuments located throughout the country. Your donation will help us bring this important honor and tribute to the greater Milwaukee community. You’re supporting not only those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom, but also their families who live with the enduring sacrifice.