By Jake O'Donnell
NEWBURYPORT — The city will be unveiling a new plaque honoring active-duty service members in City Hall on Monday, April 6, at approximately 8:45 a.m.
This endeavor is called Project Blue Star. The plaque will display the names of all current servicemen and women hailing from Newburyport, and above the plaque will be a pennant sporting a blue star.
According to Kevin Hunt, Newburyport's Veterans Services officer, the blue star flag denoting active military service first appeared during World War I, when a group called the American War Mothers started giving them out after an Ohio infantryman designed the original flag.
"Six months ago, the mayor and the civic committee wanted to do something to honor those on active duty," Hunt said. "The problem was, we didn't know how. Then we decided to do this plaque."
There are currently nine names on the plaque, and Hunt said there is room for around a dozen more.
"It's a dynamic display, and we will be adding to it," he said.
The plaque will be mounted on the wall of the corridor of City Hall. There will be light refreshments served in the Council Chamber as well. The public is invited to attend.
Those who have a friend or family member from Newburyport currently on active military duty and who would like their name included on the plaque or would like more information about this event, can contact Hunt at 978-465-4418.
