On Veterans Day, community leaders gathered to celebrate the newly restored the Blue Star Marker.
Greer Blue Star Marker
For 25 years, the Blue Star Marker on Brushy Creek Road has stood as a living memorial to the men and women who have served in the armed forces.
“I'm sure you've driven past it many times and looked at it,” said Shirley Carlsson, President of the Greer Council of Garden Clubs.
Marker Caretakers
The Greer Council of Gardens Clubs looks after the Blue Star Marker in Greer.
“For more than 80 years, the National Garden Club has partnered with communities and governments across America to place these markers along our highways, byways, parks, and civic spaces,” Carlsson said.
Restoration Process
As the years passed by, the marker’s original luster began to fade. That’s when garden club members got together and decided to restore it. After removing layers of old paint, Carlsson and another club member began to paint the marker.
“We used sponge dabbers and went over it lightly, and it took about three coats to do,” Carlsson added. “That's how we got it to what I think is a really good look.”
After several months of work, the marker was reinstalled in front of Century Park.
Marker Unveiling
Garden club members and city leaders gathered for the unveiling, with the marker covered by a velvet blanket.
“We are here today to remember those that have passed on, and we want to honor those who serve now and will serve,” Mayor Rick Danner told the crowd. “And what a great way to do it, with a sign like this that helps us remember.”
After the Pledge of Alliance, the national anthem, and remarks from community leaders, two veterans removed the cover to reveal the restored marker.
“This marker stands as an enduring promise that we see, we appreciate, and we honor everyone who has worn the uniform of the United States Armed Forces—past, present and future,” Carlsson told the crowd.
Blue Markers in South Carolina
Carlsson noted that there are 140 Blue Star Markers across South Carolina. She hopes the one in Greer will continue to serve as a symbol of remembrance for years to come.
“This is a bigger project than we've done before because there's more responsibility of doing it right.”
How to Visit
You can find the marker in the parking lot closest to Kids Planet at Century Park.