Podcast

The Blue Star Banner Program was initiated in 1917 during World War I, and the banners were a common site during both World Wars.  The program was resurrected by the American Legion in 2001 after 9/11.  The banner is displayed in the window of a home where a family member is currently serving in the Armed Forces.  Gold Star Service Banners are displayed to show that a family member has died while serving.  This is where the term "Gold Star Mothers" came from.

Franklin now joins many other communities across the country in showing our
support for all of our Armed Forces  personnel and their families.

As citizens prepare themselves for the
long and difficult "War on Terrorism" the Blue
Star Service Banner tradition reminds us all
that this new war touches every neighbor-
hood in our land.

Families with soldiers actively serving in the military should stop by the veterans agent office in the Senior Center or the Police Department to receive their Blue Star Banners. Please contact  Chief Williams at 508.528.1212, or by email at swilliams@franklinpolice.com to arrange for pickup at Police Headquarters.

November 2004.  Please note that we have a limited number of banners left, and will be available on a first come, first served basis.  Please contact Chief Williams to confirm availability.

Banners may also be obtained from the American Legion website at http://emblem.legion.org

Chief Stephen Williams stands with some of the families of Franklin residents currently serving in the military.

Chief Williams, a Vietnam Veteran, and Officer Rick Grover, a Gulf War Veteran present flags to some of the families of Franklin residents serving in the military.