THE DELAWARE HOMETOWN HEROES BANNER PROGRAM
MAY 03, 2008
Under a cloudy sky on Saturday, May 3 @ 12:00 p.m. on the east side of Legislative Hall Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 83 held their Delaware Hometown Heroes Banner Program. MG Frank Vavala was the Master of Ceremonies and The Honorable Senator Thomas Carper the keynote speaker. The occasion honored Gold Star Families of Delaware by displaying 4 foot x 2 foot banners of remembrance with their loved ones picture, age, rank, unit and location and date of death. The Presentation of Colors was led by the Delaware Military Academy Cadets and followed by the singing of the National Anthem by Ms. Portia Harmon, Gold Star Sister of Staff Sgt. Darren P. Harmon. As Gold Star Chairperson Judy Campbell read the Roll of Honor family members were escorted by the Delaware Military Academy Cadets to their respected banner where they placed a long stem yellow rose. Each family member was presented a challenge coin before returning to their seats. The solemn occasion paid respect to the fallen whose Gold Star Families reside in Delaware. The non-political, non-partisan project started for the current war on terrorism, but VVA Chapter 83 concluded it is fitting to honor all Gold Star Families in Delaware. Gold Star Mother "Mom" Pauline Anderson laid the wreath during the Field Cross Ceremony followed by the Delaware National Guard Volley, Taps by Mr. Jerry Goldman and Amazing Grace by bagpiper Mr. Bill Willis. The banners will go on display starting Friday, May 23 at the Smyrna Rest Area and later will be moved to other sites throughout the State to bring honor and remembrance to these fallen American Heroes that gave their lives in the service of our Country. After traveling throughout the state the banners will then be presented to the families in a closing ceremony in November.
If other Gold Star Families would like to participate in this program they may contact VVA Chapter 83 President, Mr. Tom Daws @ 302 738 8875 or Gold Star Chairperson Judy Campbell @ 302. 593.5991. Each banner costs $138.00 and VVA Chapter 83 is asking the public to help contribute to this program as we do not want the families to purchase banners as they have paid the ultimate price with the loss of their loved one. All donations are tax deductible and may be made payable to VVA Chapter 83 Gold Star Program and mailed to P.O. Box 8167 Wilmington, DE 19803.
