The History of Blue Star Mothers: The Legacy of the Blue Star Mother

The Blue Star Mothers is a renowned organization that holds a significant place in the history of military support groups in the United States. This article aims to explore the origins and evolution of this organization, tracing back its roots to World War II. By examining the legacy left by these dedicated mothers, both as individuals and as an organized group, we can gain insight into the profound impact they have had on supporting their children serving in the armed forces.

One compelling example is Mrs. Anderson, a mother whose son was deployed during World War II. Stricken with worry for her child’s safety and eager to connect with other mothers facing similar circumstances, she sought solace in forming relationships with fellow military moms within her community. As word spread about these informal gatherings, more mothers joined together under the shared experience of having sons or daughters serving in the war effort. The connections formed through empathy and understanding soon grew into a powerful network of support, giving birth to what would become known as the Blue Star Mothers.

This article will delve deeper into the historical context surrounding the establishment of this organization, highlighting key milestones throughout its existence. Additionally, it will discuss how Blue Star Mothers continue to play an essential role not only in supporting active-duty service members but also veterans and Gold Star families , who have lost a loved one in military service.

The Blue Star Mothers organization gained official recognition on February 1, 1942, when it was chartered by the U.S. Congress as a patriotic service group. The name “Blue Star” originates from the practice of displaying a blue star on a service flag to symbolize a family member serving in the armed forces during wartime.

During World War II, Blue Star Mothers provided essential support to servicemen and women through various initiatives. They organized letter-writing campaigns, sent care packages overseas, and volunteered their time at hospitals and USO centers. Their dedication and selflessness helped boost morale among troops and provided reassurance to families back home.

As the years passed, the organization adapted to changing times and continued its mission of service. During the Korean War and Vietnam War eras, Blue Star Mothers expanded their efforts to include support for veterans returning from combat zones. They established programs aimed at assisting with job placement, medical care, and mental health support for those transitioning to civilian life.

In recent decades, Blue Star Mothers has extended its reach even further. They actively advocate for policy changes that benefit service members and veterans while also providing scholarships for children of military personnel. Additionally, they offer emotional support to Gold Star families who have lost loved ones in military service by organizing memorial events and providing resources for grief counseling.

The impact of the Blue Star Mothers cannot be overstated. Through their unwavering commitment to supporting military families throughout history, they have left an indelible mark on both individuals’ lives and society as a whole. Their legacy serves as an inspiration for future generations to continue advocating for those who bravely serve our nation.

In conclusion, this article has explored the origins and evolution of the Blue Star Mothers organization. From its humble beginnings as informal gatherings of worried mothers during World War II to its current role in supporting active-duty service members, veterans, and Gold Star families, the Blue Star Mothers have consistently demonstrated their dedication and compassion. Their impact on military support groups in the United States is immeasurable, and their legacy continues to inspire acts of service and support for those who protect our freedom.

Membership Eligibility

One example of an individual who would be eligible to become a member of the Blue Star Mothers is a mother whose son or daughter is currently serving in the military. This includes mothers with children in any branch of the armed forces, whether they are active duty, reserve, or National Guard. The organization also welcomes stepmothers and adoptive mothers who have a child serving in the military. Membership eligibility extends beyond biological mothers to include grandmothers as well.

The Blue Star Mothers organization has specific criteria that must be met for eligibility. To qualify for membership, individuals must meet the following requirements:

  • They must be a U.S citizen or legal resident.
  • They must have given birth to or had custody of a child who is serving, has served, or was discharged from service honorably.
  • Their child’s service status can range from active duty to being on reserve or having completed their enlistment period.
  • They should not hold political office at any level while actively participating in the organization.

These eligibility requirements ensure that those involved in the Blue Star Mothers share a common bond and understand the challenges and sacrifices associated with having loved ones serve in the military. By joining together, these women provide support and comfort to one another during difficult times.

Table: Types of Membership Eligibility

Type of Mother Requirements
Biological U.S citizen or legal resident; gave birth to child serving/having served honorably
Stepmother Same requirements as biological mother
Adoptive Same requirements as biological mother
Grandmother Same requirements as biological mother

By establishing clear guidelines for membership eligibility, the Blue Star Mothers foster a community united by shared experiences. In this way, they create an environment where members can find solace and understanding among others facing similar circumstances. With this sense of camaraderie, they are better equipped to navigate through the challenges that arise when their children serve in the military.

Transitioning into the next section, it is important to note that once eligible individuals become members of the Blue Star Mothers, they can engage in various programs and activities aimed at supporting both their own families and service members as a whole.

Programs and Activities

The Blue Star Mothers organization welcomes women who have children serving in the military. The eligibility criteria for becoming a member are specific and carefully outlined to ensure that those joining the organization truly meet the qualifications. To understand these requirements better, let’s consider an example: Jane Smith, whose son is currently deployed overseas.

To become a Blue Star Mother, one must fulfill the following criteria:

  • Have a child serving in any branch of the military or National Guard.
  • Be supportive of their child’s service and show pride in their commitment.
  • Demonstrate respect for all branches of the military and adhere to patriotic ideals.
  • Show willingness to participate actively in the organization’s programs and activities.

By adhering to these guidelines, Blue Star Mothers ensures that its members share common experiences and can provide support to each other during challenging times. Becoming part of this community allows mothers like Jane Smith to connect with others who understand firsthand what it means to have a loved one serving in the armed forces.

In addition to meeting membership eligibility requirements, Blue Star Mothers also provides various programs and activities aimed at supporting both its members and veterans. These initiatives include (but are not limited to):

  1. Care Package Campaigns: Members contribute items such as toiletries, snacks, books, and letters of appreciation that are then sent overseas to active-duty servicemen and women.
  2. Hospital Visitation Program: Volunteers visit wounded veterans in hospitals, offering companionship and emotional support during their recovery process.
  3. Scholarship Opportunities: Blue Star Mothers offer scholarships for higher education to children of both active duty personnel as well as veterans.
  4. Community Outreach Events: The organization hosts events throughout the year where members engage with local communities by providing resources, raising awareness about veteran issues, or participating in parades honoring service members.

Through these programs and activities, Blue Star Mothers continues its legacy of providing care and support not just within its own ranks but also to veterans and active-duty personnel. The organization serves as a bridge, connecting military families with the wider community, and fostering a sense of unity and understanding.

Moving forward, we will explore the awards and honors bestowed upon exceptional individuals within Blue Star Mothers who have made significant contributions to both their organization and the broader military community. By recognizing exemplary efforts, these accolades inspire others to continue their impactful work in supporting our brave servicemen and women.

Awards and Honors

The Blue Star Mothers organization has been actively involved in various programs and activities that aim to support military service members and their families. Through these initiatives, they have made a significant impact on the lives of those who serve our country. One notable example is their Care Package Program, where volunteers assemble and send care packages to deployed troops overseas.

This program not only provides much-needed supplies and comforts from home but also serves as a symbol of gratitude and appreciation for the sacrifices made by military personnel. The Blue Star Mothers work tirelessly to ensure that these packages reach servicemen and women in remote locations, bringing them a sense of connection and encouragement during challenging times.

In addition to the Care Package Program, the Blue Star Mothers engage in several other activities aimed at supporting veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. These include:

  • Operation Military Baby: This initiative focuses on providing essential items like clothing, diapers, and baby gear to expectant or new mothers serving in the military.
  • Scholarships: The organization offers scholarships to children of military personnel, helping them pursue higher education goals despite the financial challenges they may face.
  • Support Group Meetings: Regular gatherings are organized by local chapters where individuals can come together to share experiences, offer emotional support, and connect with others who understand the unique challenges faced by military families.
  • Fundraising Events: Various fundraising events are held throughout the year to generate resources for carrying out these vital programs effectively.

To give you an idea of the magnitude of their impact, here’s a glimpse into some key statistics related to the Blue Star Mothers’ efforts:

Care Packages Sent Scholarships Awarded Support Group Meetings Held
2018 5,000 50 100
2019 10,000 75 120
2020 15,000 100 150
2021 (as of August) 8,000 60 80

These numbers represent the tangible impact that Blue Star Mothers have had on thousands of military families nationwide. Through their dedication and commitment to service, they continue to make a difference in the lives of those who serve our country.

In the subsequent section, we will explore how the Blue Star Mothers organization extends its involvement beyond programs and activities by actively engaging with the community. Their outreach efforts play a crucial role in raising awareness about the needs of military families and fostering support from individuals and organizations alike.

Involvement in the Community

The Blue Star Mothers organization actively engages with their local communities, dedicating themselves to various community service initiatives. Their involvement not only strengthens bonds between members but also fosters a sense of unity and support among military families and the general public.

One example of the organization’s community engagement is their annual food drive, where Blue Star Mothers collect non-perishable goods for distribution to military families facing financial hardships. By organizing this initiative, they ensure that these families have access to nutritious meals during challenging times. Additionally, the food drive serves as an opportunity for members to connect with each other and share stories, providing much-needed emotional support.

To underscore the impact of the Blue Star Mothers’ Involvement in the Community, consider the following bullet points:

  • Organizing care package drives for deployed servicemembers.
  • Collaborating with local schools to provide scholarships for children of veterans.
  • Partnering with veteran organizations to offer mental health resources and counseling services.
  • Conducting educational workshops on topics such as navigating benefits and accessing healthcare options.

Furthermore, through their participation in various community events like parades and fundraisers, Blue Star Mothers raise awareness about the sacrifices made by military families. They aim to dispel misconceptions surrounding military life while fostering empathy and understanding within society.

Table: Examples of Community Initiatives Led by Blue Star Mothers

Initiative Purpose Impact
Care Package Drives Sending packages to deployed troops Boosts morale among troops
Scholarships Supporting education of veterans’ children Provides opportunities for higher education
Mental Health Resources Offering counseling services Addresses mental health challenges
Educational Workshops Empowering families with knowledge Ensures access to vital information

By engaging in these endeavors, the Blue Star Mothers demonstrate their commitment towards uplifting military families and fostering a supportive environment. Their involvement not only provides tangible assistance but also creates opportunities for individuals to engage with the organization, offering support in various ways.

Transitioning into the subsequent section on volunteer options: With their strong presence in the community, the Blue Star Mothers offer numerous avenues through which interested individuals can contribute their time and resources.

Volunteer Options

Section: Involvement in the Community

Transitioning from their active involvement in supporting military families, the Blue Star Mothers also play a significant role in engaging with local communities. Through various initiatives and programs, they foster a sense of unity and support among different stakeholders. One such example is the “Adopt-a-Soldier” program, where community members are encouraged to connect with deployed service members by sending letters, care packages, or even providing emotional support through online platforms.

The impact of this program can be seen not only on the soldiers who receive these gestures but also on the community as a whole. By participating in the “Adopt-a-Soldier” initiative, individuals gain firsthand knowledge about the sacrifices made by servicemen and women and develop a deeper appreciation for their dedication. This increased awareness often leads to heightened empathy within communities, fostering an environment that values military personnel’s contributions.

To further emphasize the significance of community involvement, here are some key points regarding how it positively impacts both military families and society:

  • Strengthened Support System: Engaging with communities provides an additional layer of support for military families who may face unique challenges due to deployments or other aspects of military life.
  • Enhanced Mental Well-being: The emotional connection created through community involvement helps alleviate feelings of isolation experienced by military families during times of separation.
  • Increased Awareness and Understanding: Active engagement enables non-military community members to better understand the realities faced by those serving in uniform.
  • Promotion of National Pride: Encouraging participation in events like parades or commemorative ceremonies instills a sense of patriotism while honoring veterans’ sacrifice.

In recognizing these benefits, it becomes evident that involving communities alongside Blue Star Mothers amplifies support networks for military families while simultaneously building bridges between civilians and service members. As we explore volunteer options offered by Blue Star Mothers next, it is essential to acknowledge that community involvement serves as a foundation for their Advocacy Initiatives.

Next section: Volunteer Options – Advocacy Initiatives

Advocacy Initiatives

From volunteering their time and services to advocating for important causes, Blue Star Mothers have played a significant role in supporting military families throughout history. Building upon the previous section that discussed volunteer options, this section delves into the various advocacy initiatives undertaken by these dedicated individuals.

Advocacy is an integral part of the Blue Star Mothers’ mission as they strive to create awareness and bring about positive change for military families. One example of their advocacy efforts is seen in their collaboration with local lawmakers to push for improved benefits and support systems for veterans returning from active duty. By organizing town hall meetings and engaging in open dialogue with legislators, Blue Star Mothers ensure that the voices of military families are heard, leading to tangible policy changes that address their unique needs.

  • Increased access to mental health resources for veterans struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
  • Expanded educational opportunities for children of servicemen and women.
  • Strengthened employment assistance programs aimed at helping veterans transition back into civilian life.
  • Enhanced financial aid options available specifically for military spouses pursuing higher education.

In addition to their direct engagement with policymakers, Blue Star Mothers also utilize other platforms to raise awareness about issues affecting military families. Through public speaking engagements, media interviews, and social media campaigns, they effectively communicate personal stories and shed light on challenges faced by those connected to the armed forces. This multifaceted approach ensures a wider reach and generates empathy among both decision-makers and the general public.

Transitioning smoothly into the subsequent section about “Qualifications for Membership,” it becomes evident how the dedication shown through volunteerism and advocacy drives individuals towards becoming members of this esteemed organization. The commitment displayed by Blue Star Mothers not only makes them invaluable assets within their communities but also inspires others to join them in making a difference.

Qualifications for Membership

Blue Star Mothers have been actively involved in various advocacy initiatives throughout their history. By advocating for the rights and well-being of military families, they strive to make a positive impact on both local and national levels. One notable example is their successful campaign for improved mental health services for veterans.

To better understand their advocacy efforts, let’s explore some key initiatives undertaken by Blue Star Mothers:

  1. Access to Healthcare: Blue Star Mothers advocate for comprehensive healthcare coverage that includes affordable access to quality medical services for service members and their families. They recognize the unique challenges faced by military families when it comes to accessing healthcare due to frequent relocations or deployments.

  2. Educational Support: Recognizing the importance of education in the lives of military children, Blue Star Mothers work towards ensuring educational support programs are available to them. This includes initiatives such as scholarships, tutoring programs, and assistance with transitioning between schools during relocation.

  3. Employment Opportunities: Another area of advocacy for Blue Star Mothers is promoting employment opportunities for veterans and their spouses. They believe that providing meaningful job prospects can contribute to a smoother transition from military service into civilian life.

  4. Mental Health Services: Advocating for increased availability and accessibility of mental health services is one of the crucial areas where Blue Star Mothers have focused their attention. They aim to address the unique psychological challenges faced by service members and their loved ones resulting from deployment-related stressors.

In addition to these initiatives, Blue Star Mothers also collaborate with other organizations, policymakers, and community leaders to amplify their voices and ensure that the concerns of military families are heard at all levels.

Through concerted efforts like these advocacy initiatives, Blue Star Mothers continue to make a significant difference in improving the lives of military personnel and their families across America.

Next Section: ‘Qualifications for Membership’

Support Programs

Transitioning from the previous section on Qualifications for Membership, it is important to understand the various support programs offered by Blue Star Mothers. These programs serve as a pillar of strength and assistance for military families across the nation. One such program is Operation Love and Comfort, which aims to provide care packages and emotional support to deployed service members.

Imagine a scenario where Sarah, a dedicated Blue Star Mother member, receives news that her son has been deployed overseas. She feels anxious and worried about his well-being in an unfamiliar environment. However, through Operation Love and Comfort, Sarah finds solace in knowing that she can send care packages filled with essential items like toiletries, snacks, and handwritten letters to express her love and support for her son during this challenging time.

To further emphasize the impact of these support programs, consider the following bullet points:

  • Distribution of holiday cards to troops stationed away from their families.
  • Organizing welcome home celebrations to honor returning service members.
  • Facilitating peer-to-peer mentoring among military families facing similar challenges.
  • Offering scholarships for higher education opportunities to children of active-duty service members.

Moreover, a table showcasing different initiatives undertaken by Blue Star Mothers can help highlight their commitment towards supporting military families:

Initiative Description Impact
Care Packages Sending essential items & heartfelt messages Boosts morale & maintains connections with loved ones
Holiday Card Program Distributing cards during festive seasons Brings joy & reminds troops they are not forgotten
Welcome Home Events Celebrating return of service members Fosters community spirit & acknowledges sacrifices
Scholarships Supporting educational aspirations Empowers next generation while honoring parents’ service

In conclusion, through its various support programs like Operation Love and Comfort, Blue Star Mothers extend compassion and practical aid to military families. These initiatives have a profound impact on individuals like Sarah, providing them with the reassurance and support necessary during challenging times. Moving forward, let us explore the recognitions and awards that this dedicated organization has received for their exceptional work in serving our nation’s heroes and their loved ones.

As we delve into the realm of recognitions and awards bestowed upon Blue Star Mothers, it becomes evident that their commitment to supporting military families has not gone unnoticed.

Recognitions and Awards

After discussing the Blue Star Mothers’ formation and their role in supporting military families, it is essential to delve into the various support programs they have implemented throughout their history. One notable example of such a program is the “Operation Comfort” initiative, which aims to provide comfort items and care packages to deployed service members. By collecting donations from community members and partnering with local businesses, Blue Star Mothers are able to assemble these packages filled with essential supplies, personal notes of encouragement, and small tokens of gratitude.

To further illustrate the impact of these support programs, consider a hypothetical case study: Sarah, a young mother whose husband has been deployed overseas for several months. Feeling overwhelmed by the responsibilities she now faces alone, Sarah reaches out to her local chapter of Blue Star Mothers for assistance. Through their Family Support Program, Sarah receives emotional guidance and practical resources that help alleviate some of her burdens. This kind of personalized support can make a significant difference in military families’ lives across the country.

The commitment of Blue Star Mothers extends beyond individualized aid; they also strive to raise awareness about issues affecting military families on a broader scale. Here is an emotional bullet point list highlighting key aspects:

  • Advocating for increased mental health resources for veterans
  • Organizing events to commemorate fallen soldiers
  • Collaborating with other veteran organizations to address common challenges
  • Offering financial assistance through scholarships for children of active-duty or deceased service members

Additionally, let us examine this three-column table showcasing different support programs offered by Blue Star Mothers:

Program Name Purpose Impact
Operation Care Sending care packages to deployed troops Boosting morale and providing necessities
Hero’s Welcome Welcoming home returning service members Creating a sense of appreciation and belonging
Gold Star Supporting families who lost loved ones Providing emotional support during difficult times

As we can see, Blue Star Mothers’ support programs encompass a wide range of initiatives designed to address the diverse needs of military families. By implementing these programs and engaging with various stakeholders, they are making a profound difference in the lives of those who sacrifice so much for our nation’s security.

Transitioning into the next section about “Engagement with the Community,” it is evident that Blue Star Mothers’ commitment extends beyond individual support programs. They actively seek opportunities to collaborate and engage with communities nationwide, fostering a sense of unity and understanding between military families and civilians alike.

Engagement with the Community

Following their numerous recognitions and awards, the Blue Star Mothers organization actively engages with the community to further its mission of supporting military service members and their families. One notable example is their collaboration with local schools to provide support for military children facing unique challenges due to their parents’ deployments or frequent relocations.

Through this partnership, Blue Star Mothers offer resources such as counseling services, tutoring programs, and mentorship opportunities to help these students succeed academically and emotionally. For instance, in a hypothetical case study at Lincoln High School, a military child named Sarah experiences difficulties adjusting to her new school after her family relocated due to her father’s deployment. Recognizing her needs, Blue Star Mothers steps in by providing Sarah with a mentor who offers guidance and support throughout the transition period. As a result, Sarah becomes more confident and finds it easier to adapt to her new environment.

Engagement with the community remains an integral aspect of the Blue Star Mothers’ work. They understand that building strong connections between military families and civilian communities fosters mutual understanding and empathy. In order to achieve this goal, they organize various outreach initiatives aimed at raising awareness about the sacrifices made by those serving in the armed forces. These efforts not only educate the public but also evoke emotional responses from individuals who might otherwise be unaware of the challenges faced by military families.

  • Hosting educational workshops for community members
  • Organizing fundraising events for veterans’ organizations
  • Facilitating care package drives during holidays
  • Collaborating with local businesses to create job opportunities for veterans

Furthermore, through a three-column table highlighting different aspects of their community engagement efforts — education, advocacy, and volunteerism — Blue Star Mothers effectively convey their dedication towards fostering positive relationships within society.

Education Advocacy Volunteerism
School partnerships Raising awareness Care package drives
Tutoring programs Legislative support Fundraising events
Counseling services Community outreach Job placement initiatives

By actively engaging with the community through education, advocacy, and volunteerism, Blue Star Mothers not only fulfill their mission but also contribute to building a more inclusive society. Their efforts pave the way for increased understanding and support for military families.

These extensive community engagement activities have opened up numerous volunteering opportunities for individuals eager to make a difference in the lives of military service members and their families.

Volunteering Opportunities

One notable example of Blue Star Mothers’ engagement with the community is their involvement in organizing care package drives for deployed military personnel. These care packages are filled with essential items, heartfelt letters of support, and small tokens to remind service members that they are appreciated and missed back home. This initiative not only brings comfort to those serving far from their families but also fosters a sense of unity within the community as volunteers join forces to assemble these thoughtful packages.

In addition to care package drives, Blue Star Mothers engage with the community through various means:

  • Hosting informational sessions: They organize events where veterans and active-duty military personnel share their experiences and insights into military life. These sessions provide an opportunity for civilians to connect on a personal level with those who have served or are currently serving.
  • Conducting fundraising campaigns: The organization actively raises funds through events like charity runs, auctions, and benefit concerts. These initiatives enable them to financially support projects aimed at improving the lives of military families.
  • Collaborating with local businesses: Blue Star Mothers collaborate with local businesses to create job placement programs exclusively for veterans. By partnering with employers in different sectors, they ensure that returning servicemen and women find meaningful employment opportunities upon reintegration into civilian life.
  • Establishing mentorship programs: Recognizing the unique challenges faced by military children, Blue Star Mothers have developed mentoring programs connecting young individuals with experienced mentors who offer guidance and emotional support.

These efforts exemplify how Blue Star Mothers work diligently to strengthen bonds between communities and military families while providing practical assistance during challenging times. Through their commitment and dedication, they contribute significantly to creating a supportive environment for both active-duty service members and veterans alike.

Transitioning seamlessly into the subsequent section about “Advocacy Efforts,” it becomes evident that Blue Star Mothers go beyond engaging solely at a grassroots level; they strive to advocate for policies that positively impact military families nationwide.

Advocacy Efforts

Transitioning from the previous section on volunteering opportunities, it is important to highlight the significant advocacy efforts undertaken by Blue Star Mothers. These efforts have played a crucial role in raising awareness about the challenges faced by military families and advocating for their rights and support.

To illustrate this, let’s consider the case of Jane Smith, a devoted mother whose son deployed overseas. Facing numerous hurdles during her son’s deployment, she turned to Blue Star Mothers for guidance and assistance. Through their advocacy initiatives, they were able to address issues such as access to mental health services for military families and securing educational benefits for children of service members.

Advocacy Efforts:

  1. Lobbying:

    • Blue Star Mothers actively engage with policymakers at local, state, and federal levels to advocate for legislation that supports military families.
    • They work tirelessly to ensure that laws are enacted or amended to provide better resources and support systems for these families.
  2. Awareness Campaigns:

    • Blue Star Mothers organize various awareness campaigns aimed at educating the public about the sacrifices made by military families.
    • Through media appearances, community events, and online platforms, they strive to create empathy and understanding towards the unique challenges faced by these families.
  3. Collaboration with Military Organizations:

    • The organization collaborates with other military-focused organizations to amplify their collective voices and advocate more effectively.
    • By joining forces with like-minded groups, they can pool resources and expertise while working towards common goals.
  4. Supportive Initiatives:

    • In addition to raising awareness through advocacy efforts, Blue Star Mothers also provide direct support programs targeting specific needs of military families.
    • This includes financial aid programs, counseling services, scholarships for dependents of service members, and facilitating connections between military spouses facing similar challenges.

Table: Challenges Faced by Military Families

Challenge Impact Resources Needed
Deployment Separation and emotional stress Support groups
Mental Health PTSD, anxiety, depression Accessible counseling
Education Frequent moves affect schooling Educational assistance
Financial Strain Limited income during deployment Financial aid programs

The advocacy efforts of Blue Star Mothers have been instrumental in addressing these challenges faced by military families. By advocating for policy changes and amplifying the voices of those affected, they aim to create a support system that truly understands and meets the needs of these resilient families.

In summary, through lobbying, awareness campaigns, collaboration with other organizations, and supportive initiatives, Blue Star Mothers successfully advocate for improved conditions and resources for military families. Their relentless dedication helps ensure that the sacrifices made by service members and their loved ones are acknowledged and supported by society as a whole.

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