Blue Star Memorial

The Blue Star Memorial is a program honoring all men and women that have served, are presently serving and those who will serve in the Armed Forces of the United States of America.

This program originated in 1944 when the New Jersey Council of Garden Clubs planted 8,000 Dogwood trees — as a living memorial to veterans of World War II.

In 1945, the National Garden Clubs, our parent organization, adopted the program and began a Blue Star Highway system that covers thousands of miles across the Continental United States, Alaska, and Hawaii. Blue Star Memorial Highway Markers were placed along the way.

The Blue Star was adopted because it had become an icon in World War II. It was found on flags and banners in homes, churches and businesses in recognition of the sons and daughters away at war.

Since its creation, the Blue Star Highway Memorial program has been expanded to include Memorial Markers and By-Way Markers.

Our Blue Star Memorial By-Way Marker

On May 30, 1988, the San Clemente Garden Club placed a Blue Star Memorial By-Way Marker at the San Clemente Community Center. It can be found under the flagpole which is located to the left of the art gallery entrance. The club continues to maintain the By-Way Marker, while the city maintains the property. A photo of the San Clemente Blue Star By-Way Marker can be found at the bottom of this page.

Markers In the United States

Within the State of California

For a complete listing of the Blue Star Memorials within the state of California - Click Here

For additional information about the Blue Star Highway Memorials within California, visit the Caltrans website - Click Here

Within the United States of America

For a complete listing of the Blue Star Memorials in the United States - Click Here