Blue Star Memorial Marker unveiled at Westminster Veterans Memorial Park

Carroll County officials unveiled a new memorial garden honoring veterans last week in Westminster.

The Board of County Commissioners, Carroll Garden Club and the Department of Recreation and Parks held a Blue Star Memorial Marker dedication and park ribbon cutting ceremony May 18 for the Westminster Veterans Memorial Park.

The 33-acre park, which opened in 2022, includes a free play area, a picnic pavilion, a playground and a walking trail, according to a county news release.

“I am honored and feel privileged to … be part of a project that means so much to so many,” Commissioner Ed Rothstein said in the news release. “This is a beautiful park that will provide a place for everyone to honor and acknowledge all veterans and their selfless service while also allowing veterans and their families and loved ones to have a beautiful and tranquil setting to remember and grieve. As a veteran I am awed by the intention behind the Blue Star Memorial Marker program, and I sincerely appreciate the Carroll Garden Club for their sponsorship of this designation.”

The Blue Star Program began with the planting of 8,000 dogwood trees by the New Jersey Council of Garden Clubs in 1944 as a living memorial to veterans of World War II and now honors all who serve in the armed forces, according to the National Garden Clubs. In 1945, the National Council of State Garden Clubs adopted the program and began a Blue Star Highway system that covers thousands of miles across the U.S.

The blue star was adopted because it had become an icon in World War II and was seen on banners and flags in homes for sons and daughters away at war as well as in businesses and churches.

“The Carroll County Department of Recreation and Parks is both excited and honored to officially unveil the new memorial garden which includes a Walk of Honor path and interpretive/commemorative plaques dedicated to each branch of our armed forces,” Department of Recreation and Parks Director Bob Hicks said in the release. “This incredible display will honor all veterans who have served our country and their selfless dedication to the American way of life.”