Scott and Kathy Webb, co-authors of “The History of Silver Lake as Told Through Its Deeds,” have recently gifted copies of their book to the many contributors who played a crucial role in its creation. One of the first and most impactful contributors was Ruth Stonesifer, a woman whose remarkable life and work deserve recognition far beyond the small entry she occupies in the book.
Ruth Stonesifer, a genealogist, mother, talented quilter and activist, provided a vital breakthrough in the Webbs’ research with her Delaware Diamonds Genealogy website, detailing the ancestry of William Grant Stonesifer. Her contribution was invaluable, yet her own story is one of profound strength and resilience.
Ruth’s son, Kristofor “Kris” Stonesifer, lost his life in action in Pakistan during the October 2001 Enduring Freedom campaign, becoming the first casualty in America’s War on Terror following the September 11, 2001 attacks. Kris was born on August 20, 1973, in Florida and demonstrated a deep commitment to his country through multiple volunteer efforts within the United States Army. He enlisted on August 7, 2000, completed his basic and advanced training as an infantryman at Fort Benning, Georgia, and went on to volunteer for Airborne School. After completing airborne training in December 2000, Kris further distinguished himself by joining the 75th Ranger Regiment, where he completed the rigorous Ranger Indoctrination Program and was assigned to the 3rd Battalion on February 7, 2001.
In October 2001, Kris was deployed to the USS Kitty Hawk as part of the Enduring Freedom campaign. On October 19, during Operation Rhino, he and fellow Ranger Jonn Edmunds were killed in a helicopter accident in Pakistan. Operation Rhino involved parachuting approximately 200 Rangers into a small airfield southwest of Kandahar, Afghanistan. Kris was aboard a Blackhawk helicopter performing a search-and-rescue mission in support of U.S. Special Forces on the ground when it crashed.
To honor of her son’s sacrifice, Ruth has dedicated herself to various causes supporting military families. She successfully advocated for a Pennsylvania bill to establish specialized license plates for Gold Star Families and led efforts to display Hometown Heroes banners, starting with the Pennsylvania Hometown Heroes program. and served as the National President of the American Gold Star Mothers organization for the 2009-2010 term.
The Hometown Hero Banners are a visible and enduring tribute to the men and women who serve or have served in the United States Armed Forces. These banners, which feature the name, photo, and branch of service of individual veterans, serve multiple purposes:
1. Preserving Memories: The Hometown Heroes Banner Program ensures that the bravery and sacrifices of service members are never forgotten. These banners celebrate the lives of those who have defended the nation.
2. Honoring Service: The program is designed to recognize and honor both current service members and veterans, celebrating their commitment and sacrifice.
Through her tireless work and advocacy, Ruth Stonesifer has created lasting tributes to her son and countless other service members. Her efforts remind us of the importance of honoring those who have given so much for our country, and her story is a testament to the enduring power of strength, resilience and unending love.
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