Covington, Georgia is littered with various unique, historical landmarks, but the Blue Star Memorial Highway is one that is often overlooked. Interestingly enough, Covington’s Blue Star Memorial Highway located on Monticello Street SW at Church Street is just one of the many Blue Star markers that can be found across the United States. These small, yet significant, monuments were erected in honor of the brave men and women working for the U.S armed forces.
The highway program was founded and carried out by the National Council of State Garden Clubs, Inc. beginning in 1945, just months after the end of World War II. However, the idea originated from the New Jersey State Council of Garden Clubs’ highway beautification project in 1944. They successfully managed to plant over 8,000 Dogwood trees on a 5 1/2 -mile stretch of highway which was then dedicated to members of the New Jersey Armed Forces.
The Blue Star symbol itself also carries a lengthy American history. The symbol was used back in 1917 on a Blue Star Service Banner, a symbol for parents whose children were actively completing military service. According to the American Legion, this flag of sorts was designed and patented by World War I Army Captain Robert L. Queisser ofthe 5th Ohio Infantry. Queisser had extensive experience in the military, as he and his two sons served in the U.S armed forces for many years. Then, on September 24, 1917, an Ohio congressman argued that the flag should be adopted because, “the world should know of those who give so much for liberty.”
Today, we continue to honor the lives of those that have fought and continue to fight for the freedom and liberties of this nation with the Blue Star Memorial Highways. They are a timeless reminder of the citizens that have risked their very lives for us and for our country.
