Serving those who serve

BELLEVUE — A group of dedicated mothers is turning personal sacrifice into powerful support for those who serve. The Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc. is a patriotic, non-partisan and non-political organization of mothers, stepmothers, grandmothers, foster mothers and legal guardians who have children serving in the U.S. Armed Forces or who are veterans, according to Amy Zienta, president of the Lake Erie Shores Blue Star Mothers, the organization's local affiliate. The Lake Erie Shores Blue Star Mothers is more than just a support group — it's a lifeline for mothers of active-duty service members, veterans and fallen heroes. As president, Zienta's mission is to raise awareness of the chapter's presence and purpose in the local community. "My main goal when I first came in was to make sure that everybody knew in the local area who we were and what we stood for," Zienta said. "That way we could help people, that's my main goal." About the organization The group was founded in 1942 during World War II. The name "Blue Star Mothers" originates from the tradition of families hanging service flags in their windows — each blue star on the flag represents a family member serving in the military. The organization has grown into a powerful network of over 6,400 members across 234 chapters nationwide, according to the Blue Star Mothers' website. One of those 234 chapters is the Lake Erie Shores Blue Star Mothers, which covers Erie, Sandusky, Ottawa, Seneca and Huron counties. A way to give back At the heart of this chapter is Zienta, a proud Army mom whose journey into the organization began with a deeply personal and emotional experience. When Zienta's son, Specialist Brody Stockmaster, enlisted in the Army in 2021 — without telling her until two weeks before deployment — she was overwhelmed with emotion. "I mourned him," Zienta said. "It felt like he died almost." Struggling with the sudden change and the fear of the unknown, Zienta found comfort and strength in the Lake Erie Shores Blue Star Mothers. "I found other women that were experiencing the same thing," Zienta said. "The support of the organization helped me through." For Zienta, the organization became a way to give back. "Knowing that we're making a difference to those that are fighting for our freedom is the most rewarding part," Zienta said. What the group does Care package drives, fundraisers and participating in local events are all organized within the nonprofit. One of the chapter's most meaningful events is its participation in Wreaths Across America, scheduled this year for Dec. 13 at the Ohio Veterans Home, 3416 Columbus Ave. During this ceremony, members and volunteers lay remembrance wreaths on the graves of fallen veterans, ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten. The organization's fiscal year runs from Sept. 1 to Aug. 31, with all board roles filled by elected volunteers. Zienta's current term as president ends Aug. 31, and she plans to run for a second term.