DOVER, Del. - The observance of Veteran's Day continues Monday, as we honor those who've fought for our freedoms, remember those we've lost and support those still serving. In Kent County, Delaware, this day was also dedicated to the military families.
Like the saying goes "Not all wounds are visible" but it was an emotional day in Dover. Hundreds gathered at the Kent County Veterans Park to witness the unveiling of the Gold Star memorial. It's a special tribute to mothers and families of fallen military servicemen and women.
Keynote speaker, Major General Frank Vavala expressed his gratitude to be a part of such a pivotal moment.
"We ensure that the story of sacrifice by not so ordinary heroes does not fade into oblivion," he said.
One story that will never be forgotten is that of Lance Corporal Chad Clifton. His legacy lives on through his parents Terri and Richard.
"Chad was a Marine, a 2/5 out of Pendleton. There are two things he wanted to be in life: a marine and a writer. Chad was the most alive person I ever met, he had a high IQ and a high sense of humor. He was my best friend," said his mother Terri Clifton.
Chad was killed in February of 2005 by a mortar strike in Iraq at the age of 19, a devastating loss to come to grips with.
"When we began to recover we knew that that grace given to us was ours to pass along," said Terri.
Families can still purchase a brick to place on the Gold Star Memorial site. Go to www.delawarevva.com or call 302-697-8384.
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