America Supports You: Silver Star Families Honor Caregivers

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

June 13, 2008 - For the last few years, a group has fought to have wounded servicemembers recognized with a Silver Star banner for servicemembers wounded in combat, much like a Blue Star banner displayed by those with a loved one deployed on the front lines. Now, Silver Star Families of America has extended its program to honor the medics who treat those wounded on the battlefield with a certificate of appreciation.

"This is a new program for us, but we believe that it is in keeping with our mission to remember and honor our wounded," said Janie Orman, the organization's president. "Those who place their lives on the line to make sure our wounded come home should be thanked, and this is a good start."

To qualify for the certificate, the medic must have been involved in the actual treatment or transportation of wounded servicemembers while serving in a war zone from any war. This honor extends to medics, helicopter pilots, doctors, nurses or anyone directly involved in treating the wounded in a war zone defined by the Defense Department, Orman said.

Silver Star Families of America has honored seven medics to date. Nominations for this certificate can be submitted through the organization's Web site.

The organization is a supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and companies with servicemember and their families serving at home and abroad.