Blue Star Memorial Marker dedicated at the Montgomery County Courthouse

November 9, 2009 |

The Blue Star Memorial unveiling

On a fair and sunny November day, almost 100 people gathered together on the courthouse lawn to dedicate a new memorial honoring all those who have served, are serving, and will serve in Armed Forces of the United States.

The project was made possible by donations from the members of the Beachaven Garden Club, the Clarksville Garden Club, and the Les Candides Garden Club. “We want to show our deep support and appreciation of those who have defended our freedom in the past, those who are at great risk in defending us today, and those who may do so in the future.”

Sandra Watson, President Beachaven Garden Club; Edith Hudson, President Les Candides Garden Club; Congresswoman Marsha Blackburn; Annette Shrade, Chairwoman Blue Star Memorial Committee; Pat Arendt, President Clarksville Garden Club

Congresswoman Marsha Blackburn addresses the crowd

Congresswoman Marsha Blackburn spoke briefly acknowledging the sacrifice and dedication of America’s service members, and honoring both those currently serving, and past veterans.

The memorial was accepted on behalf of Montgomery County by Mayor Carolyn Bowers who assured those assembled, “This monument will be always be watched over and maintained under my watch!” She was followed by Clarksville Mayor Johnny Piper who accepted the memorial on behalf of the City of Clarksville.

The Monument faces north and south along South Third Street, and is easily visible to traffic driving by.

A driver looks at the Blue Star Memorial as he drives by

The Blue Star Memorial Program of the National Garden Clubs, Inc., began in 1945 to honor the men and women serving in the Armed Forces during World War II. The name was chosen for the iconic Blue Star appearing on flags and banners displayed in homes, churches, and businesses to honor sons and daughters away at war. Garden clubs envisioned a ribbon of living memorial plantings traversing every state. The designation of Blue Star Highways was achieved through petitions to state legislatures and through cooperation with Departments of Transportation. A uniform Memorial Marker was designed to identify the highways.

The Blue Star Memorial Program has grown to extend thousands of miles across the continental United States, Alaska, and Hawaii. Markers continue to be dedicated each year, not just on highways but at veterans’ facilities, National Cemeteries, parks, and civic historic sites. The Memorial Markers are a fitting tribute to show our appreciation for the men and women in our Armed Forces who fly our skies, sail our seas, and guard our shores, service members who stand ready at a moment’s notice to defend our country.

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