YOU ARE INVITED TO THE DEDICATION Sunday, June 6, 2010   3:00 pm Louisiana Pavilion The National World War II Museum Andrew Higgins Blvd at Magazine Street New Orleans, Louisiana  70130  RSVP - bill.detweiler@nationalww2museum.org or (504) 834-1700

Locate a Louisiana Marker

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 the 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: Effective May 1st, 2010. These prices are good until May 2012

HIGHWAY MARKER – $1250 Overall height when erected is 7’6”. The plate is 41” high by 45” wide. To be placed on dedicated highways.

MEMORIAL MARKER - $1250 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 - $410 Plaque is 12” by 20” (for mounting on masonry or wood). To be placed in civic gardens, parks and historical sites.

Made of cast aluminum. Allow at least six wks for delivery, after the order is received by the manufacturer.

A "Guidelines" booklet can be ordered from NGC Member Services for $5.00, which explains all procedures, including awards available to clubs.