Gold Star Spouses Day is observed annually on April 5 to honor and grieve with the families of lost or wounded military service members. This day, which has evolved from the original Gold Star Wives Day to include all family members affected by military loss, serves to recognize their sacrifices and honor their grief. Remembrance ceremonies are held, and events such as "remember the fallen" road races take place in their honor. The Gold Star initiative began during World War One, with families displaying blue stars for serving members, which would be replaced by gold stars if a service member died. The Golden Star Wives Association was established in 1945, and the day has since become a significant occasion for acknowledging the sacrifices of military families.