Local Gold Star and Blue Star families gathered at the Northern Nevada Veterans Home 36 Battle Born Way in Sparks on Wednesday to kick off a grassroots campaigned called "Freedom Isn't Free."

The campaign put together by Gold Star Families Memorial, Nevada. The goal is to bring the term "Blue" and "Gold" stars to the public eyes and find ways to preserve the memories and sacrifices the families have given the country. Gold Star is a term that describes family members who have lost a loved one in military service and Blue Star describes a family member that has a person that is currently serving.

As important as it is to honor the fallen that have fought for our country, representatives from Gold Star Families Memorial, Nevada says it's also important to remember the people they left behind.

Families shared stories of loss at the small event, but they also shared hopeful thoughts. 

Resident Nicole Scott is both a Gold Star and Blue Star family member. She said she lost her brother shortly after the September 11th attacks, and her son decided to serve in the military once he became of age.

"For him to be able to say he's willing, he's ready, he's signing on that dotted line and that he's willing to give his all for everything that we have... for our freedoms... I was sick and at the same time I felt honored. I felt honored that I brought up such a fine and outstanding young man." said Scott.

Scott says not a lot of people are familiar with what the gold and blue stars represents, so she hopes the campaign will help spread awareness. She also says there are a lot of little things people can do to show veterans and gold or blue star family members that you care.

Sharon Oren, of Gold Star Family Memorial, Nevada said, "I think a simple "thank you: would be a good beginning. A simple hug or handshake, and say "thank you for the sacrifice."

To learn more about Gold Star Families Memorial, Nevada you can click here.