The City of La Mirada is seeking photographs and information from residents with immediate family members serving in the Armed Forces for Blue Star posters. Listed below are the names of the troops to view.

          The Blue Star Service Banner was designed and patented in 1917 by World War I Army Capt. 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.

On Sept. 24, 1917, an Ohio congressman read the following into the Congressional Record: "...The mayor of Cleveland, the Chamber of Commerce and the governor of Ohio have adopted this service flag. The world should know of those who 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, including activated members of the National Guard and Reserves, whether the family member is a son, daughter, brother, sister, wife, husband, cousin, grandchild, etc. The banner displayed in the front window of the home, shows a family's pride in their loved one serving in the military, and reminds others that preserving America's freedom demands much.

        The Blue Star stands for hope and pride for the troops.  A Yellow Star stands for wounds sustained overseas, and a Gold Star stands for sacrifice of life.  By placing these stars in the windows of homes and vehicles, the community can recognize and support the troops serving our country.
         Residents of La Mirada with an immediate family member serving in the Armed Forces can fill out an application for the Blue Star program.  Upon completion of the application, the Blue Star poster will be mailed to your residence, picked up at City Hall or presented at a City Council meeting.

            For more information and to fill out an application, contact City Hall at (562) 943-0131.  An application form is also available here: Blue Star Program Application.