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Blue Star Service Flag

Offered by: The Great Republic

Description
This is an original Blue Star Service Flag, circa 1917. Service flags are designed with a white field, a red border, and one or more blue stars in the center. Each star represents a family member serving in the military during times of war or hostility. If a service member dies, the blue star is covered by a gold star. This particular flag has three blue stars, indicating three family members serving in the military.

Service flags were first used during World War I. The flag was designed by WWI Army Captain Robert L. Queissner of the 5th Ohio Infantry, who had two sons overseas serving on the front line. On September 24, 1917, an Ohio congressman read 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.”Queissner officially patented the design for service flags on November 6, 1917.

The flag soon became the unofficial symbol for a family member in service. Though service flags usually hung in windows for a son or father in service, families did display them for their daughters serving as nurses, volunteers or in other support roles. In 1967, the United States Congress officially codified the service flag.

CONDITION:

Good condition, with minimal fraying and toning. White headband with two original display holes. Three blue service stars are sewn on white field, with a red border. “Patented Nov. 6, 1917” Unframed Dimensions: 18” H x 12” W.

The flag has been artfully and archivally framed in a custom wooden frame with acid-free linen and UV glass. Framed Dimensions: 19 7/8" H x 25 1/4" W x 7/8" D.

Accompanied by our company's letter of authenticity.