When chapter member Tim Maggart, a former Army captain, was asked by American Gold Star Mothers Inc. to perform at the group’s national convention, he not only said yes, but he also offered to write an original song.

“One of my favorite venues is when I have the opportunity to perform a keynote concert for conventions and special events,” said Maggart, an award-winning singer/songwriter.

Maggart and co-writer Bill DiLuigi wrote the song in March during a three-hour writing session. The inspiration: The personal experiences of several of Maggart’s friends.

“Along with Patti Elliott, president of American Gold Star Mothers, I have a few friends who are Gold Star mothers and family members, and I have a deep respect for them and what they have gone through in losing their loved one. In talking with them, I was inspired to write, ‘Heart of a Gold Star.’”

Next came having the song professionally developed and recorded. This is where Maggart’s fellow Chattahoochee Valley (Ga.) Chapter members jumped in to support the effort.

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“When he came to me and gave me the background and said I really want to do this, but I need some help, I told him to consider it a done deal. Give me the bill,” said Col. Mayo “Biff” Hadden III, USA (Ret), chapter president.

With the chapter sponsoring the song, Maggart performed it in front of attendees at the convention in Raleigh, N.C. It was a hit.

“I could not have dreamed of a better response of those in attendance,” said Maggart. “It truly was a humbling honor that they expressed their appreciation with a standing ovation.”

Former Army Capt. Tim Maggart performs his song “Heart of a Gold Star” at the American Gold Star Mothers Conference in June. (Courtesy photo)

For Elliott, whom Maggart included in the songwriting and recording process, hearing the final song was emotional. “I cried,” she said. “He had taken my rambling thoughts and expressed them perfectly. Yes, every day is Memorial Day for us, and all any of us want is for our children’s impact to be remembered.”

Hadden said the chapter is honored to support this effort.

“Giving back is something our chapter does routinely, and this song allowed us to help the healing process for Gold Star families,” he said. “If it touches the heart of the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice, we’re going to do something.”