The Blue Star Memorial in Naugatuck stands as a lasting tribute to the men and women who have served, who currently serve, and who will serve in the United States Armed Forces.

The Blue Star Memorial Program was established by the National Garden Clubs in 1945, at the close of World War II. The original Blue Star Highway system was created to honor returning veterans and eventually extended across thousands of miles throughout the continental United States, as well as Alaska and Hawaii. In 1949, the stretch of Interstate 95 from New Haven to the Rhode Island border was officially designated as a Blue Star Highway.

Over time, the program expanded beyond highways to include By Way Markers and Memorial Markers placed at veterans’ facilities, national cemeteries, parks, and civic spaces. More recently, the Gold Star Memorial was introduced to honor families who have lost a loved one in military service.

Connecticut’s Participation

Connecticut is home to many Blue Star Memorials. Each is sponsored by a local garden club that is a member of The Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut, Inc. or by the statewide organization itself. Memorials can be found in towns across the state, including Naugatuck.

The Naugatuck Dedication

Naugatuck’s Blue Star Memorial was dedicated on May 29, 2021, during Memorial Day weekend. The memorial was presented to the Borough of Naugatuck by the Naugatuck Garden Club through its partnership with the National Garden Clubs and the Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut.

Despite cold, rainy, and windy weather, a large gathering of residents and military dignitaries attended the ceremony. The event was hosted by John DeBisschop, Chairman of the Naugatuck Veterans Council, and included the formal unveiling and presentation of the memorial to the people of Naugatuck.

Representatives of the Naugatuck Garden Club and the Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut were present for the dedication, reflecting the strong collaboration behind the project. Special recognition was given to Marty Lee Fenton for organizing the event.