Gold general's stars are usually worn by police chiefs. Military generals wear silver-color stars. The promotion ceremony is performed when the promotion orders are read out to the individual, then the insignia is pinned to the uniform. The format is usually: "The President of the United States, having reposed confidence in the patriotism, valor, fidelity and abilities of (named individual), he/she is hereby promoted to the grade of (rank title). This officer will carefully and diligently discharge the duties of a (rank title), by doing and performing all manner of things thereunto belonging. Given under my hand in the city of Washington, on (date) and of the independence of the United States (200+ years). Signed by the President of the United States."
That is roughly the format that I remember.