Lt. Gen. Thomas S. James Jr., Commanding General, First U.S. Army, hugs a Gold Star Mother after she received a yellow rose during the Gold Star Mother’s Day luncheon, September 29, 2019, at Cantigny Park in Wheaton, Illinois. The United States first began observing Gold Star Mother’s Day on the last Sunday of September in 1936. James, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, and a dozen dignitaries attended the Gold Star Mother’s Day luncheon. The luncheon honored the sacrifice of Gold Star Mothers and Families who have lost a loved one while serving in the U.S. military. An estimated 150 Gold Star Mothers and supporters attended the luncheon. Pritzker officially proclaimed September 29, 2019 as Gold Star Mother’s Day in Illinois. Members of the Illinois Patriot Guard lined the walkway to the entrance of the LeJardin Room where the event was held. (U.S. Army Reserve photo by Sgt. David Lietz)