Manhasset Post 304 of the American Legion is joining with the American Legion nationwide to bring back the Blue Star Service Banner. The Blue Star Service Banner was designed and patented in 1917 by World War I Army Captain Robert L. Queissner of the 5th Ohio Infantry who had two sons serving on the front lines. It quickly became the unofficial symbol of a child in the service.

Shortly after, an Ohio congressman in support of the banner read into the Congressional record, "...The world should know of those that give so much for liberty. The dearest thing in all the world to a father and mother-their children.

Today, Blue Star Service Banners are displayed by families who have a loved one serving in the armed forces. The banner displayed in the front window of a home, shows a family's pride in their loved one's service and reminds others that preserving America's freedom demands much.

The banners were widely used across America during World Wars I and II, but were not embraced during Korea or Vietnam with nearly the same enthusiasm.

Manhasset Post 304 has joined with the American Legion nationwide in rekindling the tradition and spirit of pride in our military men and women following the horrific terrorist attacks of September 11. The post is ready to provide Blue Star Banners to families in Manhasset to honor the service of their loved ones.

If you have an immediate family member serving on active duty in the armed forces, and this includes National Guard and Reserve personnel who have been activated, and you would like to display a Blue Star Banner, leave your name and phone number on the post's voice mail at 627-0501 and the post will arrange for a presentation of a banner to you.

Ed Gaus

Post Commander