THE

BLUE STAR MEMORIAL

MARKER PROGRAM

Since 1945

Honoring the men and women

of the Armed Forces of America

HISTORY:

The Blue Star Memorial Marker 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 star on flags displayed in homes and businesses denoting a family member serving.  Garden clubs pictured a ribbon of living memorial plantings traversing every state.  The designation of Blue Star Highways was achieved through petitions to the state legislatures and cooperation with the Departments of Transportation.  A uniform marker was designed to identify the Highways.

The Blue Star Memorial Program grew to extend thousands of miles across continental U.S., Alaska, and Hawaii. All men and women who have served, are serving, or will serve in the Armed Forces of the United States are included.

Markers continue to be dedicated each year on highways, Veterans’ facilities, National Cemeteries, parks, and civic and historic sites, showing our appreciation for those who defend our country.

No marker may bear an individual’s name.  These markers are designed to pay tribute to the Armed Forces as a whole.

PROCEDURE:

·        A garden club votes to have a marker.  An appropriate location is selected and type of marker for that location is chosen.

·        Contact the State Blue Star Memorial Chairman for forms and instructions.

·        Contact local or state authority responsible for location.

·        Send order form and check to State Blue Star Memorial Chairman for processing.

·        Clubs may solicit other civic organizations to help with funding, construction, planting, and maintenance.

COSTS:

Made of cast aluminum

HIGHWAY MARKER – $940.00 (as of 1/1/2007 $1130)

Overall height when erected is 7’6”.  The plate is 41” high by 45” wide.

To be placed on dedicated highways.

MEMORIAL MARKER - $940.00 (as of 1/1/2007 $1130)

Overall height when erected is 7’6”.  The plate is 41” high by 45” wide.

To be placed in National Cemeteries, Veterans Medical Centers, and other civic locations.

BY-WAY MARKER - $235 (as of 1/1/2007 $360)

Plaque is 12” by 20” (for mounting on masonry or wood).

To be placed in civic gardens, parks and historical sites.

Allow at least six weeks for delivery of marker after the order is received by Sewah Studios, the manufacturer.

MORE INFORMATION:

The BLUE STAR GUIDELINES booklet may be ordered from

NGC Member Services, (800-550-6007). 

It contains an expanded history, shipping information, dedication ceremony examples, awards information, the order form and much more.

For  further information on Markers  Contact:

Marion Caldwell  bluestarmemorials@ncagardenclubs.org

Blue Star Memorial Markers may qualify for a grant from the new NGC progrm, "Let Freedom Ring," supported by the Principal Financial Group.  For information on the grants and how to apply, click HERE.