GOLD STAR MOTHERS: The September/October 2014 issue of The VVA Veteran features three interrelated stories on the American Gold Star Mothers, the one organization no one wants to join. [on the cover]

TRANSITION AND EVOLUTION: Bill Triplett pens an overview of the Gold Star Mothers, the organization for women whose children have died in military service. A generational shift in the organizations’ leadership is underway as the Vietnam generation gives way to a younger generation, metamorphosing both their self-image and their mission.

ANDREW CHERNAK & THE GOLD STAR MOTHERS MEMORIAL: Xande Anderer profiles sculptor Andrew Chernak and the Gold Star Mothers Memorial he designed and executed—and the subsequent effort to create a national memorial in Washington, D.C., based on it.

EVER FAITHFUL: VVA’s Delaware County Chapter: For many years VVA’s Delaware County, Pennsylvania, Chapter 67 has attended the GSM ceremonies, providing a color guard and emotional support. Richard Currey examines that special relationship.

VVA IN MAGIC CITY: An extended photoessay by Michael Keating highlights both work and play at VVA’s 2014 Leadership & Education Conference in Wichita, Kansas.