Mothers of fallen soldiers honored in Jacksonville

LITTLE ROCK, AR-- During Sunday's Gold Star Mothers Ceremony at the Jacksonville Museum of Military history, about 100 people gathered to support one another. It is an event which honors mothers who've had sons or daughters die while serving.

Army Staff Sgt. Alan W. Shaw died in 2007 on his second tour of duty in Iraq. His mother, Nora Mae, participated in Sunday's event.

"I have told parents that I have been around, (death) is as bad as you ever imagined and then some," said Shaw.

So Shaw finds support from events like GSM, where state and national leaders even gave Shaw a banner to place in her home.

"We hang them on our door to let people know this is a Gold Star family. We gave our sons and daughters for your freedom and we want people to know that," said Arkansas GSM President Fran Marshall

Planners say GSM events are so important because it helps families overcome their grief, especially mothers.

Now Shaw helps others cope.

"When (my son) was killed, I felt like I had so many people who supported me. I was really shocked at the turn out and I appreciate it," said Shaw.

One reality remains for the first year ceremony, which will eventually be held annually.

"We will have more mothers. That's sad to say but we will," said Marshall.