Skiatook forms American War Mothers chapter

Sunday, September 8th 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

Local mothers pay tribute to the sons and daughters of war. News on Six Reporter Patrina Adger talked to a group of local mothers whose children have at least one thing in common, a child who made the choice to answer the nation's call to serve.

The mothers met in Skiatook Saturday to form a new chapter of American War Mothers. The first new chapter formed in Oklahoma is 25 years and for two years in the country.

Kate Hearn who is National president of the American War Mothers was on hand for the event. She says the first national chapter was sanctioned by Congress in 1925 as a way for mothers to aid those wounded in war.

Now-more than seventy years later, these war mothers and hundreds throughout the country continue that civil duty to assist when needed, during peace and war time.

"All of my children are active duty I love them and respect them and they honor me to no end."

There are ten American War Mothers chapters in Oklahoma. The new Skiatook chapter is named the Brian A. Moss chapter after the Naval Petty officer from Sperry killed in the Pentagon on September 11th.

"It makes me proud and it would make Brian proud knowing that he was being remembered in such a patriotic and loving way," says Brian's mother, Pat, who serves as the local chapter's sergeant at arms.

She says this past year without her son has been very painful. But says the organization serves as a support group for her, especially now when the anniversary of 9/11 is drawing near.

"My son is no longer with us, but their sons and daughters are and I'm there for them and they're there for me and that's what it's about."

A way to honor all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice

These military mothers will also volunteer their time at local veterans' hospitals throughout the area.