GOLD STAR

MEMORIAL MARKER

DEDICATION

13 JUNE 2026

STATHAM, GEORGIA

Welcome Speech for Blue & Gold Star Dedication Ceremony

Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, honored guests, veterans, service members, and families. I invite you to take a moment and imagine the sound of boots on gravel, the rustle of a flag in the wind, and the quiet strength of a family waiting at home. These are the sounds and images that live in the heart of every service member and every loved one who supports them. Today, we gather not just to dedicate markers of paint and metal, but to honor the living spirit of sacrifice, courage, and love they represent.

 On behalf of the sponsors, that made these markers possible, first to Robert Wall, President of Cable East Inc. whose generosity is greatly appreciated and who made it possible to get the process started. To Mayor Krause and the City of Statham for providing an appropriate space here alongside the Veterans Park Marker. To my fellow Veterans Rick Baugh and Tim Terelli at American Legion Post 163 for their brainstorming and help with all the leg work leading up to today’s ceremony, and last but not least, Jan Thiese, our Blue Star and Gold Star Memorial Marker Chairman of the Garden Club of Georgia, Inc. who helped guide us through this whole process. Jan informed me yesterday that she could not be here today due to a family emergency.    

I extend a warm welcome to each of you. We are deeply honored to have you all with us today

to be part of this dedication ceremony.

The Blue Star symbolizes the hope, pride, and unwavering support for those currently serving in our Armed Forces. The Gold Star stands as a solemn reminder of the price of freedom — honoring those who never returned home, and the families whose lives were forever changed.

These markers are not merely memorials; they are promises. Promises that we will remember. Promises that we will teach future generations about the courage it takes to serve and the resilience it takes to wait, to hope, and to carry on.

For some here today, these stars are deeply personal. They represent a son or daughter, a spouse, a parent, a friend. They represent birthdays missed, milestones postponed, and the bittersweet pride of service. They remind us that freedom is not free — it is paid for in moments, in years, and sometimes in lives.

As we dedicate these markers, let us also dedicate ourselves — to supporting our military families, to caring for our veterans, and to living in a way that honors their sacrifice. Let these stars be more than symbols; let them be a call to unity, gratitude, and service in our own lives.

Thank you for being here today, for standing together in remembrance and respect. May these Blue and Gold Stars shine as beacons of honor in our community, reminding us always of the courage of those who serve and the love of those who wait. God bless you all, and May God bless America.