CHICAGO - U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Michael N. Parks, commander of the 9th Coast Guard District, speaks with Marilyn Smith, who's son, Sgt. Gerrick D. Smith of the Illinois Army National Guard, was killed in Afghanistan July 29, 2009, during the annual Illinois Gold Star Families Breakfast at Macy's in Chicago May 26, 2012. The breakfast is a yearly occurrence and an opportunity for Illinois Gold Star Families to gather and honor their loved ones' memories on Memorial Day weekend. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Lauren Jorgensen)