Pictured is the Gold Star Memorial Rock located in Veterans Memorial Park on West Third and Logan streets, Jamestown.

The Blue Star Mothers, New York Chapter 4 will hold the fifth annual rededication of the Gold Star Memorial on Saturday at 10 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park on West Third and Logan streets in Jamestown.

As part of the annual remembrance during the Memorial Day season, the Blue Star Mothers will recognize local Gold Star heroes and families, as well as the memory of all those Chautauqua County residents who have made died in the service of United States. Originally established in May 2013, the Gold Star Memorial serves as a daily visual remembrance fallen soldiers.

Chautauqua County has had 17 county residents die in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom and beyond since Sept. 11, 2001. Desiring that these sacrifices never be forgotten, the local Blue Star Mothers chapter honors Chautauqua County’s local Gold Star families with a memorial display, including a monument rock and plaque honoring the dead and surrounded by annually-flowering cherry trees. Saturday’s ceremony will include the presence of many local dignitaries along with a 21-gun salute and Color Guard of local veterans organizations. The participation of the local Patriot Guard, solemn musical tributes and a bagpipe benediction will also be included in the program.

The public is invited to attend the ceremony and dedication. Seating will be limited, so those in attendance are invited to bring a chair.

Since its inception during World War II, the national Blue Star Mothers organization has existed to provide support for active duty service personnel, to promote patriotism and to assist veterans’ organizations in our communities. Membership in the Blue Star Mothers is comprised of those who now have or have had children honorably serving in the U.S. military. Chautauqua County’s local chapter (NY Chapter 4) has been actively pursuing opportunities to provide tangible and emotional support to military personnel and their families since 2007.

The Gold Star designation recognizes a family who has lost a son or daughter in the service of the United States. Blue Star Mothers strive to honor these families with great respect and appreciation for those family members left behind. For more information, email bluestamothersny4@yahoo.com or call 450-5593.