Marine death inspires gold star license plate

Marine death inspires gold star license plate
The Associated Press
Posted : Friday Jan 11, 2008 11:36:45 EST

FORT DODGE, Iowa — The state is offering a new license plate honoring military personnel killed in combat.

The plates feature a gold star emblem and are for families who’ve had a relative killed while serving on active duty in any war. The gold star emblem dates back to at least World War II, when families of service members displayed banners with stars in windows at their homes.

Sen. Daryl Beall, D-Fort Dodge, headed the effort and the Legislature approved the plates last year. They became available through county treasurer’s offices with the new year.

Beall said he first got the idea after Lance Cpl. Ben Carman, a Marine from Jefferson, was killed in Iraq on April 6, 2004.

“We are very honored,” said Marie Carman, the Marine’s mother. “We were very excited that Senator Beall proposed this.”


Rest of article at: http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2008/01/ap_goldstar_080111/



uhc comment: It's nice to see Iowa recognize Gold Star families, but it's too bad they have to pay $25 for the plates. GSF plates are free in Mass.

However, I'm glad to see it is there. I agree, should be free (or same price as the regular plate).

L-

someone making money out of this grief. Just bring them home and we don't need these.