CHIPLEY’S BLUE STAR MARKER REDEDICATED ON VETERANS DAY 2025
If you ever noticed it, Chipley’s Blue Star Memorial Highway Marker was in great need of refurbishing and relocation. Since the 1960s, it has been located in front of the FDOT offices on US Highway 90 – forgotten – between the sidewalk and a fence in the small green space overshadowed by trees. The tiny “garden” had no water source and no lighting.
Led by Club President Mike Hansen and Treasurer/Veterans Affairs Chair Stacy Hansen, Chipley Garden Club’s project began in January. Approval was obtained from Florida Department of Transportation, Florida Federation of Garden Clubs, Inc., Deep South Garden Clubs, National Garden Club, and the City of Chipley to proceed with re-location.
The City of Chipley had a perfect place for its new home. The marker would be moved to directly in front of Chipley City Hall in a large fully-lighted green space, highly visible from US Highway 90, with parking available.
FDOT moved the marker on a new pole to its new location at no charge. A garden featuring Dwarf Red Knock-Out Roses and Rad-White Knock-Out Roses, both Rosa “Knock Out”, was planted around the marker. Mulch, rocks, and the border were donated by TCB Landscaping Materials. The City of Chipley provided a water source with nice fiberglass “rock” cover, and irrigation.
Our Blue Star Memorial Highway Marker Rededication took place on Veterans Day 2025 in front of Chipley City Hall. It was a blustery 38 degrees and wind! The day of the event, a field of USA flags and banners were set out by the Patriot Guard Riders. The color guard was provided by Chipley High School Junior ROTC. Following presentation of the colors, the Pledge of Allegiance to the United State of America was recited and the National Anthem was heard. Speakers included Chipley Mayor Tracy Andrews, Retired US Army Major Gary Holbrook from AMVETS Post 007, Club President Mike Hansen, and Veteran Affairs Chair Stacy Hansen. The benediction was delivered by Captain Kenneth Kelly, United States Air Force Chaplain. Hot coffee, cocoa and donuts were provided for the ceremony by Wausau Garden Club. Approximately 65 guests attended the event.
Chipley Garden Club will continue to maintain and decorate our marker, along with two other Blue Star Memorial Highway Markers which we have adopted – Bonifay and Cottondale (both located on US Hwy 90).
If you would like to know more about Chipley Garden Club’s activities and projects, please contact Mike Hansen, Club President at 909-736-7620 or email him at drmz4hire@hotmail.com.
