The City of Allen wishes to honor our Allen area service personnel currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces by presenting a Blue Star Flag to their families. The Blue Star Flag, whose history dates back to World War I, is displayed in the family's window when a loved one is currently serving in the Armed Forces. The Service flag is an official banner authorized by the Department of Defense for display by families who have members serving in the Armed Forces during any period of war or hostilities the United States may be engaged in for the duration of such hostilities.  The Service flag, also called the Blue Star Flag, was designed and patented by WWI Army Captain Robert L. Queisser of the 5th Ohio Infantry who had two sons serving on the front line. The flag quickly became the unofficial symbol of a child in service.