[freepersup]

I think a 'gold' star means the wearer has made 5 combat jumps. Very rare- near God-like status amongst jumper and military community... coveted by 'some' having never made a combat jump / highly respected and admired by all others

[leadpenny]

Here is a great sight I just found with some quick history on the Jump Wings and Combat Stars (Bronze and Gold)

http://www.qmfound.com/parachute_badge.htm

[Eric in the Ozarks]

A buddie of mine who'd been in the 101st in Viet Nam had never seen one.