Gold Star Families
Stories from those who have lost loved ones in military service
"Gold Star Family" is a modern reference that comes from the Service Flags that were first flow by families in World War I. These flags with blue stars were flown by families who had immediate family members serving in the armed forces of the United States during a war or hostilities. If that family member died, the blue star was replaced by a gold star.
Below, meet four families from the region who have experienced that loss and watch and listen to their stories.
Gustavo Rios-Ordonez
Diana Rios runs the El Cazadore Restaurant in Englewood where her late son, Army Pfc. Gustavo Rios-Ordonez also worked. Gustavo was killed in Afghanistan in June, 2011. Mrs. Rios misses working with her son at the restaurant and the enthusiasm Gustavo had for his family and soccer.
Nicholas Olivas
Adolfo Olivas knew his son would make a great soldier, and supported him in joining the U.S. Army, having been a public servant himself in Hamilton. Olivas lost his son, Army Cpl. Nicholas Olivas, in May of 2012 while he was serving in Afghanistan. The elder Olivas finds special solace in the challenge coin given to him by his late son after completing his first jump with the 82nd Airborne. Adolfo Olivas carries the coin with him every day.
Wesley Williams
Linda and Lars Williams lost their son U.S. Army SSgt. Wesley Williams in December of 2012 in Afghanistan. Wesley was deeply involved in Junior ROTC at Tecumseh High School. Linda says she holds no resentment or regrets about Wesley’s service and made the most of every visit home he made. Both parents wear Wesley’s dog tags.
"Rocky" Zanowick
Paul and Nanette Zanowick, parents of Marine Cpl. Paul "Rocky" Zanowick II, found strength in the outpouring of support from other Gold Star families after Rocky's death in Afghanistan in 2011. Several of Rocky’s squad members have met with his family and participated in Rocky’s Run for Freedom 5K in Miamisburg.