2018 Blue Star Memorial Marker in New Hampshire

The New Hampshire Federation of Garden Clubs dedicated a Blue Star Memorial Marker at the NH State Veterans’ Cemetery located in Boscawen, New Hampshire on October 21, 2018 .  NHFGC members, Blue Star Families, veterans, veterans’ families, representatives of the different branches of the military and invited guests were present to witness the dedication.

The dedication ceremony was held in the Veterans’ Cemetery’s Chapel where the Salem, NH High School Air Force Junior ROTC Color Guard presented the colors. Speakers at the dedication were Susan Miner, NHFGC 1^st Vice-President and Blue Star Memorial Project Chairman; Andrea Little, National Garden Clubs Blue and Gold Star Memorial Marker Chairman; Karen Thurston, NH Blue Star Families Chairman; Jane Hirsch, Special Assistant to NH Governor Chris Sununu who read a citation from the Governor; and Joyce Kimball, NHFGC President. NEGC Director Susan Hinkel was our special guest. The ROTC Color Guard led the procession across the way to the site of the monument where “Taps” were played following the unveiling of the marker. A reception was held for all attendees at the conclusion of the dedication.

The marker, which is inscribed “A tribute to the Armed Forces who have defended the United States of America” and “Sponsored by the New Hampshire Federation of Garden Clubs, Inc.” was funded entirely by NHFGC  clubs and their individual members. It was aptly placed among several other distinctive markers honoring Gold Star Families and all branches of the service. NHFGC members will plant a garden at the base of its Blue Star Marker in the spring which will be maintained by Veteran’s Cemetery staff.

Joyce Kimball, NHFGC 2017-2019 President

Visit the National Garden Clubs website for complete information on the history of Blue Star Memorials, guidelines, resources and order forms.