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Gold Star Families ask Oak Harbor to adopt ‘Gold Star Family City’ resolution
Summary
Family members and veterans groups asked the Oak Harbor City Council to declare the city a Gold Star Family City to honor those who died in military service and to create a liaison, memorialization and year‑round recognition; council said a draft resolution will come to the next meeting.
Julie Street and Erin (Aaron) Doran, speaking for Gold Star Families of Washington and VFW members, asked the Oak Harbor City Council on Dec. 2 to adopt a resolution declaring Oak Harbor a Gold Star Family City and to appoint a liaison to coordinate recognition and support. "Becoming a Gold Star Family City honors those who made the ultimate sacrifice and their families," Street said, and she described proposed year‑round recognition, memorial signage and school programs in memory of Sergeant Colby Doran.
Jane Hughes, co‑founder and president of Gold Star Families of Washington, told the council the organization can provide signage and paperwork and said an initial donation paid for 50 signs. Mayor Wright thanked the presenters and said the council has already drafted a resolution and will bring it forward at the next meeting for adoption.
Council members expressed support. Councilmember Stuckey thanked the families for their courage and said the designation would remind the community of sacrifice. The council did not take final action at the Dec. 2 meeting; the presenters asked the city to adopt a formal proclamation and to work with local veteran organizations on memorials and educational outreach.
Next steps: staff will place a resolution on a future council agenda for formal adoption and, if approved, the city would coordinate with Gold Star Families of Washington and local veterans organizations on signage, ceremonies and liaison duties.
