Mamie Forbes, owner of  Orcas Boardwalk Café, and Irene Herring, owner of San Juan Coffee Roasting Company, are the latest recipients of the Blue Star Banner in honor of  their sons’ military service.

Mamie’s son Shawn Forbes  is currently serving in Afghanistan.  His designation is Explosive Ordnance Disposal.

Irene’s son, Alex Herring serves on the U.S.S George Washington.

The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 163 of Friday Harbor  honors San Juan County families of service men and women with the presentation of a Blue Star Banner.

Established during WWI, Blue Star Service Banners are displayed by families who have a loved one serving in the armed forces, including the National Guard and Reserves of all military. The banner displayed in the front window of a home shows a family’s pride in their loved one serving in the military and reminds others that preserving America’s freedom demands much, say organizers.

The Friday Harbor American Legion Auxiliary sends monthly comfort packages to any San Juan County serviceman stationed in danger zones.

Relatives or friends with servicemen on active duty may contact Minnie Knych for further information at knych@rockisland.com.