GOSHEN – When you drive into the Orange County Veterans’ Cemetery in Goshen, one of the first things you will see now is a bronze statue of a mother on a pedestal. That’s a new addition to the cemetery dedicated on Veterans’ Day in honor of those mothers who have lost a son or daughter in the armed forces.

Renata DeAngelis of Campbell Hall is president of the Poughkeepsie Chapter of the Gold Star Mothers.

“Sometimes we are asked how to join our organization. Believe me. You don’t want to be a member. The dues are too high.”

DeAngelis and three other Gold Star Mothers were on hand for a dedication ceremony.

State Senator William Larkin, a retired Army lieutenant colonel, gave an emotional speech about his service and the sacrifices given by the men and women who have lost their lives.

“Without our veterans, we would not be the greatest nation in the world,” said Orange County Executive Edward Diana.

Former Congressman Benjamin Gilman said the monument is a “wonderful tribute” to those who sacrificed their lives for America.