SALT LAKE CITY – The mothers of soldiers who were killed on active duty in the U.S. Military were honored Sunday night at a special dinner.
The Gold Star Mother’s Reception was held in the Utah State Veteran’s Memorial Chapel at Camp Williams, and the event celebrated the lives of fallen soldiers by giving their families the opportunity to speak about their lost loved ones.
Patrice Hunt was one mother honored at the event.
“The pain of losing our son has been extreme,” she said. “We love him. We miss him. But his death has also made our hearts more compassionate to others who have experienced loss in their lives.”
Pat Gannon was also in attendance.
“David was a wonderful son, really intelligent, very reflective, kind, smart, he was very musical,” Gannon said. “He played the guitar beautifully and the piano.”
Gold Star Mother’s Day is officially celebrated on the final Sunday of September. The day was founded following WWI in order to provide support to mothers and families who have lost children to war.