Photo By Sgt. 1st Class Ariana Shuemake | West Virginia National Guard hosts the 2025 Gold Star Family Retreat at Camp Dawson,...... read more read more
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From Sept. 27-28, 2025, the West Virginia National Guard honored the families whose service members gave the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation during the Gold Star Families Retreat at Camp Dawson in Kingwood, West Virginia.
“Families come to the Gold Star event to honor the memory of their loved one that was lost,” said WVNG Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Jim Seward. “To say the name of that military member that was lost, when we say their name, year after year after year, we're honoring them.”
Family members share stories of their loved ones throughout the weekend, supporting each other and giving a listening ear for fellow families in grief.
The WVNG invites all West Virginia and Pennsylvania Gold Star families every year, sharing support across state lines.
“It helps bring families together. They can help share their experiences about their loved one, some good, some bad,” said Assistant Adjutant General of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, Brig. Gen. Frank Montgomery. “Obviously there's going to be some sadness with the loss, but then they can build strength together..”
Saturday, camaraderie was built through various events held in and around the Camp Dawson Event Center, including a painting class, bowling, cornhole, bingo, family game night, and a tailgate party for college football.
New events for younger Gold Star family members included multiplayer video games and a bounce house.
Mountaineer Therapy Dogs were present in the building, while outside The Stars and Strides Equine Therapy center brought horses, promoting healing from the pain of loss through animal therapy.
Mission Beelieve, Valley Healthcare System, USAA, The American Red Cross, Veterans Help Group, Vet Center, AETNA, Survival Outreach Center, and Commemorate Through Chords were on site to provide information on healthcare, finances, and support groups for the families.
American Idol contestant Cody Clayton Eagle played original music and covers for the families to end out the day with applause.
Sunday started with the raising of the Honor and Remember flag by Mountaineer ChalleNGe Academy - North cadets followed by a 5k run or 1 mile walk at the flagpole.
A prayer breakfast was held in the dining hall before the Honor and Remember Memorial Service, led by Seward. WVNG Chaplain Col. Jim Davidson offered an opening and benediction while the 249th Army Band gave musical support to the ceremony.
4-year-old Leira Young was presented with an Honor and Remember flag for her father, Staff Sgt. Logan Young, who passed six months before she was born.
A moment of silence was held for Terry Cunningham, The West Virginia Gold Star Mother President and who attended the retreat since her son, Staff Sgt. Robert Cunningham, passed away in 2018.
The weekend concluded with a rose presentation and a biodegradable balloon release while Sgt. Eric Davis with the 249th played Taps.
| Date Taken: | 09.28.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 09.28.2025 16:25 |
| Story ID: | 549481 |
| Location: | KINGWOOD, WEST VIRGINIA, US |
| Web Views: | 56 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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