Gov. Henry McMaster Honors Fallen Soldiers with Hero Tree

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSPA) – Governor Henry McMaster and South Carolina leaders honor fallen service members and their families each year during the holidays, honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

The holiday season is a time for families and friends to get together, but not everyone has that luxury. At the State House on Wednesday, Governor McMaster and state leaders unveiled a tree honoring the fallen soldiers.

Hundreds of gold stars were available to decorate the tree in honor of the deceased soldiers. Gold Star families said this gives them a sense of comfort during the holiday season.

“May this tree remind us of our strength in community, the power of memory and the light that our heroes continue to shine through us all,” said Tia Jones, mother of First Lieutenant Justice Stewart.

Jones remembers her late daughter.

The annual tradition began in 2019 and Governor McMaster said he looks forward to continuing it next year.

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