Connecticut Heroes Tree Lighting at The Kate

Old Saybrook is the official first and only site in CT for the "Heroes Tree"

State and local dignitaries, along with local veterans, will gather Friday, Dec. 4, at 5:15pm for the lighting of the town and State's first official “Heroes Tree” at the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center at 300 Main Street.

The public is invited to the special 5:15 pm tree lighting. Those gathered around the tree will pay tribute to the deceased, the injured and currently-active members of our armed forces from Connecticut.

The "Heroes Tree" is adorned with Gold Stars for the deceased, Silver Stars for those injured, and Blue Stars for those serving this country from Connecticut. It was decorated by the WWII, Korean and Vietnam Veterans, their families and the members of the Old Saybrook community especially the children of Anita Mosher's middle school Art class who made the beautifully decorated paper stars!

During the tree-lighting ceremony in the Katharine Hepburn center, the names of the deceased will be read by Old Saybrook Firefighter Don Lucas, and Pastor Michael Calo from the Shoreline Church will offer an invocation.



The concept behind the "Heroes Tree" comes from artist and Gold Star Mother Kathryn Cross. Ms. Cross is the President of the Department of Connecticut, American Gold Star Mother Volunteers, an 81-year-old organization headquartered in Washington, D.C. The "Heroes Tree" is designed to raise awareness toward those who gave their lives or were injured defending this country, and to honor the continuing sacrifices being made during this holiday season by the men and women in our armed forces.

The Katharine Hepburn center was chosen as the site of the "Heroes Tree" so the display could be easily visible to those passing by on Main Street during this holiday season.

Old Saybrook Fire Department
http://www.oldsaybrookfire.com/

The Katherine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center
http://www.katherinehepburntheater.org/