State, federal, and local dignitaries will join with local veterans, the American Legion, VFW, Westbrook Elks, members of the U.S. Coast Guard, Gold Star families, and the Patriot Guard Riders Flag Line and Honor Guard on Saturday, December 4, 2021 at 5 p.m. for the annual lighting of the town and state’s first official “Heroes Tree” at the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center at 300 Main Street in Old Saybrook.

Morning radio talk show host Lee Elci of 94.9 News Now will serve as master of ceremonies and will be joined by invited special guests Governor Ned Lamont, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, U.S. Congressman Joe Courtney, former First Selectman of Stonington and U.S. Army Veteran Colonel Rob Simmons, Old Saybrook First Selectman Carl Fortuna Jr., and State Representative Devin Carney.

The public is encouraged to attend this special 5 p.m. tree lighting. Those gathered around the tree will pay tribute to deceased, injured, and active members of our armed forces from Connecticut. “God Bless America” will be sung by a very special guest, Michelle Della Fave, who was part of the “Golddiggers” singing-and-dancing troupe on the Dean Martin Show and the Bob Hope Christmas Tour. In addition, a special performance of Christmas songs will be performed by the Old Saybrook High School Carolers.

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. The tree was decorated by World War II, Korean, and Vietnam veterans. The “Heroes Tree” invocation will be given by Chaplain Jane Viera, U.S. Navy Retired.

The concept behind the “Heroes Tree” comes from artist and Navy Gold Star Mother Kathryn Cross. The “Heroes Tree” is designed to raise awareness during this holiday season toward those who gave their lives or were injured defending this country and to honor the continuing sacrifices being made since 9/11 by the men and women in our armed forces.

The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center was chosen as the location for this memorial display because of its relevance to Kathryn Cross, the “Heroes Tree” original artistic director. Katharine Hepburn’s sister Peg was also a Gold Star Mother. She lost her son Tommy in Vietnam in 1968. It therefore seemed the most appropriate location for the special “Heroes Tree,” whose display is visible to all who travel along Old Saybrook’s busy Main Street during this holiday season.