The Record Newspapers - Hometown News For Orange County, Texas

Bridge City and Orangefield residents will soon see an old tradition return as local families of active duty service members show their pride for their loved ones and their patriotism for the country.

Families of service members from the Bridge City and Orangefield area will be honored in a special ceremony and receive Blue Banners for active duty members at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at Circle Drive Baptist Church, 100 Circle Dr., Bridge City.

American Legion Post 250 volunteers are compiling a list of Bridge City and Orangefield families who have members on active duty.

The banners have been funded by several fund raisers by the Post.

The Blue Star Banner program honors local families with loved ones serving in the military. Families of active duty members who are wearing military uniforms regardless of their current assignment or branch are eligible.

World War I Army Capt. Robert L. Queissner, of the 5th Ohio Infantry, designed the Blue Star Banner in 1917. The Banner quickly became the unofficial symbol of a child in service. Each Blue Star on a Banner represents one family member serving. The Banner can have up to five stars, representing five family members serving.

Families display the banners in the front windows of their homes to show their pride in their loved ones.

The Banner is also designed to remind others that preserving America’s freedom demands much.

Bridge City and Orangefield families may turn in applications to any Post 250 member.

In addition, families may send applications to Post 250, P.O. Box 1561, Bridge City, TX 77611.

Applications should include full name and rank of active duty member, home of record of service person (active duty person must be a resident of Bridge City or Orangefield), branch of service, current assignment; and name, address and phone number of the family member receiving the Blue Star Banner.

Deadline for applications is Nov. 1.

Applications are also available at the Orange County Veterans Service Office, 10984 FM 1442, Orange or click on the button to the right that says Blue Star Banner applications here.

For more information, contact Marv Howland at (409) 745-3427 or any Post 250 member.