News

Once again, the Blue Star Banner Program was proud to participate in the Crystal Lake Independence Day Parade, joining the community in celebrating our country’s 250th anniversary. The highlight of the day was honoring our own Jerry Shaffer, who was named Grand Marshal of the parade. Jerry Shaffer’s contributions to Crystal Lake have been enormous, […]

In celebration of America 250, the Fox River Valley Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR), dedicated an America 250! Patriot Marker at historic McCormick Park in Crystal Lake, Illinois, on July 12 at 1:00 p.m. The Blue Star Banner Program was invited to attend this special community event honoring America’s founding […]

Members of the Blue Star Banner program in Crystal Lake celebrated the grand opening in June of the newly revitalized Depot Park, the beautiful gathering space and self-proclaimed “front yard” of the community located in downtown Crystal Lake right next to the Metra train station. One of the highlights of the event was the solemn […]

On December 4th, 2025, a Banner Presentation Ceremony was held at City Hall to present Blue Star Banners to the families of our most recent honorees.  Mayor Haig Haleblain gave banners to the families of Marine Corps Cpl Estevan Correa, Army National Guard Sgt Michael Anthony Garcia, Navy EMN2 Nathaniel Leali, Army National Guard Spc […]