It began in response to a facebook post. A Gold Star mom remarked that her daughter in law was in a tough spot financially and did anyone know of any charities that gave to Gold Star kids. I searched around the Internet and saw nothing. After a few minutes I came to my big kids and said we had to do something.
From that point forward, it was a walk of faith but one that God blessed quickly. Incredible people hopped on board with us– Rusty Secrist built the website so that Gold Star 
wives could tell the stories of their fallen loved ones and register their children for gifts. Kyle and Kristine worked to get emails, arrange meetings, and my girls got their Student ACES team on board. Chris Gannon got FedEx to pay for shipping and when it came time to get ACES kids involved, dozens of people donated time, money and effort into making sure that the next generation of voters knew that their freedoms and opportunities come at a cost. Karen Vaughn and her family, Brian Mast and his family, as well as the ROTC and even my community’s security crew climbed on board helping to honor the fallen and give to families who have lost their loved one.
I want to thank each and every person that prayed for our project and partnered with us in showing Gold Star families that we are indeed a grateful nation. Our precious soldiers who gave their last full measure have been remembered, their families prayed for, and your generosity made it all happen. This was by far the greatest Christmas–because I finally felt like I had DONE SOMETHING tangible with my life for America’s Gold Star families.
I sincerely hope that every one of you who participated by sharing the video, posting the link, purchasing gifts, telling your friends, and praying for the families and the project as well as dozens of volunteers and dozens of donators and underwriters feel as blessed as I do to have been a part of the first American Gold Star Christmas. I thank each and every one of you from the bottom of my heart. You make me one proud mama. One grateful American. One amazed believer in the incredulous grace and mercy of Jesus who blessed every step of this project and may He bless you all for #believingwithme
Amanda says
Hands down one of THE BEST projects I have ever had the privledge to be a part of! THANK YOU for stepping out in faith! For acting when there was a need! For loving just like Jesus! Love you and honored to be your friend and Believe with you. Xoxo
Lyette Reback says
Could not have done it without so much help. So grateful for friends like you who jump on board and say LETS DO IT! Seriously the best Christmas of my life.
Rachel says
Simply amazing. Just living proof of the power of the mighty God that we serve. Thank YOU for your heart to serve, and the opportunity to serve with you. My family was blessed.
Lyette Reback says
Your gifts were so wonderful and I LOVE how you included something for the moms!