This is another update about the upcoming event to honor the Gold Star Families of Vermont planned for Saturday, May 23 in Derby. The event will take place between 1 and 4 p.m. at the Elks Lodge located on Route 5 (the Derby Road) in Derby. We are hoping for a large turn out to recognize these families.

            The event will begin at 1 p.m. with a light lunch hosted by the Elks Lodge. Following the posting of the colors by members of the JROTC unit from North Country Union High School, and opening prayer by Gold Star father, Pastor Nathan Strong, there will be a number of speakers. That list has not yet been completed but it will include the following people.

*Marion Gray, a Gold Star mother from Calais, and the spokesperson for Vermont’s Fallen Families will speak about her son Jamie Gray and her work at keeping alive the memory of all fallen veterans.

*Vicki Strong of Albany, a Gold Star mother whose son was killed in Iraq. She has been on numerous local, state, and national television and radio programs talking about the loss of her son, Jesse Strong, and the love she has for her country, and for the people of Iraq.

*Ray Griffin of Glover will talk about the loss of his brother during World War II and his mission to preserve the memory of his brother and all those who have been lost in the line of duty.      

*Carlisle Whitehill of Island Pond will share memories of her late husband, Marshall Ray Frizzell, a helicopter pilot who was shot down and killed in Vietnam.

*State Auditor and Iraq War Veteran – Thomas Salmon

*United States Senator Bernie Sanders

*United States Senator Patrick Leahy and Congressman Welch will address the group via video

*A yet determined official with the Vermont National Guard

            In addition to the meal, the speakers, and the tribute, this will serve as a time to meet the families of the servicemen who paid the ultimate sacrifice – they gave their lives. There will also be a tribute table for people to display memories of their lost loved ones.

            People with questions can contact me by email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by phone at (802) 334-5920.