Wendy Weikel is a new member, and she says it's comforting to see how other people live with their loss.

NPR: 'Gold Star' Efforts Help Families of Fallen Soldiers

On advice from the other widows, Weikel made what she calls a "preemptive strike" on her first Christmas without her husband.

NPR: 'Gold Star' Efforts Help Families of Fallen Soldiers

Weikel credits the Gold Star Center for helping her navigate the good days and the bad, and for keeping her connected to the military community.

NPR: 'Gold Star' Efforts Help Families of Fallen Soldiers