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Updated: October 2026

Gold Star Lapel Button

Term
A lapel button that identifies the next of kin of a service member who lost their life under qualifying circumstances, such as combat against an enemy, an international terrorist attack, or peacekeeping duty outside the United States. It shows a gold star on a purple disk inside a gold laurel wreath, and the military departments provide one to each eligible family member at no cost.
Source: 10 U.S.C. 1126; DoD Instruction 1348.36Family Assistance

See Also (Related Terms)

Showing 2 of 2 related entries

Next of Kin Lapel Button

A lapel button, officially the Lapel Button for Next of Kin of Deceased Personnel, for families of service members who die while on active duty or while in a drill status with the Reserve or National Guard, in circumstances that do not qualify for the Gold Star Lapel Button. It shows a gold star inside a circle of oak sprigs, honoring the member's service.

Service Flag

An official banner, often called the blue star service flag or banner, that immediate family members may display in a window of their home while a loved one serves in the armed forces during a period of war or hostilities. Each blue star on its white field and red border stands for one family member in uniform. If that member dies, a smaller gold star covers the blue star.

Browse Other Family Assistance Military Terms

Showing 3 of 3 total entries
Entry Type
Service Branch
CACO
Acronym
Casualty Assistance Calls Officer
A service member assigned to notify a family of a service member's death and to assist the family with benefits, entitlements, and arrangements in the aftermath.
Next of Kin Lapel Button
Term
A lapel button, officially the Lapel Button for Next of Kin of Deceased Personnel, for families of service members who die while on active duty or while in a drill status with the Reserve or National Guard, in circumstances that do not qualify for the Gold Star Lapel Button. It shows a gold star inside a circle of oak sprigs, honoring the member's service.
Source: U.S. Army; Congressional Research Service
SBP
Acronym
Survivor Benefit Plan
A DoD-sponsored annuity program that provides a continuing monthly income to eligible survivors after a retired service member's death.

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Gold Star Lapel Button
Term
A lapel button that identifies the next of kin of a service member who lost their life under qualifying circumstances, such as combat against an enemy, an international terrorist attack, or peacekeeping duty outside the United States. It shows a gold star on a purple disk inside a gold laurel wreath, and the military departments provide one to each eligible family member at no cost.
Source: 10 U.S.C. 1126; DoD Instruction 1348.36•Family Assistance
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