# What This Bill Does

This is a symbolic resolution that officially designates the week of September 24-30, 2023, as "Gold Star Families Remembrance Week." A gold star is a symbol used to honor military families who have lost a loved one in service to the country. The resolution asks Congress to recognize and honor these families and encourages Americans to observe the week by doing community service and remembering those who died serving in the military.

# Who This Affects and Why It Matters

This primarily affects military families who have lost a family member in combat or while serving in the Armed Forces. The resolution acknowledges that while there's already a "Gold Star Mother's Day" (the last Sunday in September), there hasn't been a dedicated time to honor all family members affected by these losses—not just mothers, but spouses, children, siblings, and other relatives. By creating this remembrance week, Congress is saying these sacrifices deserve official recognition and remembrance.

# What Actually Changes

It's important to understand that this resolution doesn't create any new laws, provide funding, or change any government policies or benefits. It's purely symbolic—it's Congress officially saying "we recognize and honor these families." The resolution encourages Americans to perform community service and remember fallen service members during this week, but there's no requirement or enforcement mechanism. It's essentially a formal statement of respect and gratitude, similar to how Congress designates other national observance weeks throughout the year.

Designating the week of September 24 through September 30, 2023, as "Gold Star Families Remembrance Week".

Newhouse, Dan

 <p>This resolution designates an annual Gold Star Families Remembrance Week and recognizes the sacrifices made by veterans' families and the families of members of the Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in order to defend freedom and protect the United States.</p>