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Press Release -- June 11, 2008
Hometown Heroes Honored
DelDOT's Smyrna Rest Area Adorned with Banners of Delaware Soldiers
Smyrna --
Governor Ruth Ann Minner and the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) have joined with Vietnam Veterans of America - Delaware Chapter 83's Gold Star Program to help that organization promote its statewide campaign to honor, remember and educate the public about the service men and women who have died in service.
The Gold Star Families' Hometown Heroes banners hanging on light posts at DelDOT's Smyrna Rest Area is the first stop on a statewide tour. The placement of the banners at the Rest Area is a starting point in the Gold Star mission to remind all Delawareans of the dedicated service by the members of our Armed Forces and of the tremendous loss suffered by the families left behind. Following the Rest Area, the 30 banners will soon be brought to other locations statewide. An event with the Governor, Gold Star Families and DelDOT was held June 11, 2008 at the Smyrna Rest Area to announce the statewide tour.
The banners depict the names and other information of soldiers that have died while in service. Many of the banners have photos. The soldiers on the banners all have family who received the Gold Star pin, established by Congress following World War II, to identify immediate family members who lost their lives during the World Wars and any subsequent hostilities in which the U.S. became engaged.
The Hometown Heroes whose names are on the banners are: Charles R. Anderson, Wilmington; Theodore J. Chason, Wilmington; Keith A. Campbell, Virginia; Richard C. Clifton, Milford; Gregory S. Copenhaver, Maryland; Richard S. Dennison, Bethel; Michael Egan, New Jersey; Elmer L. Faulkner Jr., Greenwood; Keith E Fiscus, Townsend; Matthew M. Flocco, Newark; Joseph P. Garyantes, Rehoboth; Darren P. Harmon Sr., Newark; Ralph J. Harting III, Hockessin; Michael A. Hastings, Seaford; Richard Z. James, Seaford; Elizabeth A. Loncki, New Castle; Ryan P. Long, Seaford; Brian D. McGinnis, St. Georges; Stephen M. McGowan, Newark; Joseph F. Montruchio, Wilmington; James S. Moudy, Newark; Edward J. Murphy, Newark; Corey L. Palmer, Seaford; Thomas J. Protack, Millsboro; Anthony P. Roberts, Bear; Robert E. Scharon III, Milford; Stephen P. Snowberger III, Bear; Prince K. Teewia, North Carolina; Jarrett B. Thompson, Dover; and, Russell P. White, Dagsboro.
"The Delaware Hometown Heroes Banner Program is an outstanding initiative that pays tribute to Delaware's fallen soldiers and gives Delawareans an opportunity to learn more about the heroes who gave the ultimate sacrifice," said Governor Ruth Ann Minner. "I am proud of the partnership between the state and the Gold Star Families that ensures these brave men and women will never be forgotten."
Tom Daws, president of the Vietnam Veterans of America - Delaware Chapter 83, and Gold Star Chairperson and Gold Star Family member Judy Campbell, have taken up the task to bring awareness about the program. They hope these efforts will entice more families to join their group.
Said Judy Campbell, "As a Gold Star Sister I've learned first-hand what loss means to a family and I am now working diligently to keep these families connected. Membership into this family is not one of choice, but we are deeply rooted and bonded forever. I encourage those eligible to contact us and to join with us to help bring honor and remembrance."
Tom Daws said he's grateful for the support from the many individuals to date, and expects upcoming banner placements will help raise awareness.
In addition to the banner campaign, DelDOT's Division of Motor Vehicles also offers a Gold Star Family license plate. In order to receive one, the individual must provide official documentation showing they have been awarded a Gold Star Lapel Button by the U.S. Department of Defense in recognition of a close relative's death while serving in the military.
Also, a DMV application must be filled out and is available at www.dmv.de.gov/forms/veh_serv_forms/pdfs/ve_frm_mv2010.pdf?052208. The cost is a one-time fee of $10. Individuals can contact the Dover Administrative Office at (302)744-2503 for an application or if they have any questions.
Judy Campbell can be reached at (302)593-5991.
Tom Daws can be reached at (302)740-8098, or vnamvet@comcast.net.
Also, visit www.delawarevva.com for more information.
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