What are those banners with the star in the middle that I see in windows?

Designed in 1917, by World War One Army Captain Robert Quessner, the in service star banner is traditionally hung in the window of the home of a person who has a family member currently serving in the United States Military.  That person can be a son, daughter, wife, husband, etc.  The blue star represents one family member currently in service; a gold star on a banner represents a family member who was killed during service.  Seeing these banners today in windows of homes reminds everyone of us that war is not something that happens overseas on far-away lands, but is something that affects every street and neighborhood in our country.  Banner is 8″x15″ with crossbar and a gold cord and tassel.  The service star is also available in a 3×5′ flag.