In a powerful moment that added lasting significance to an already emotional evening, the City of Folsom announced Saturday night that a future street will be named in honor of retired U.S. Marine Sgt. Tyler Vargas-Andrews.
The announcement came during the “An Evening of Silver Stars” gala, hosted by the Rolling Hills Blue Star Moms at the California Aerospace Museum, where community members, military families and supporters gathered to honor Silver Star families—those whose loved ones were wounded or injured while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Folsom Mayor Justin Raithel announced during the program that, in partnership with Toll Brothers and the Rolling Hills Blue Star Moms, the city would honor Vargas-Andrews by naming a future street after him, drawing a standing ovation from attendees. The dedication will serve as a permanent recognition of his service and sacrifice, as well as the broader contributions of military families.
“Thank you to Sgt Vargas-Andrews and your family for your sacrifices. Thank you to all of the Silver Star families for your sacrifices. We will remember your stories,” Raithel said.
The tribute added a deeply personal layer to an evening centered on resilience and remembrance. Vargas-Andrews, a Marine Corps veteran, was critically injured during the attack at Abbey Gate in Kabul, Afghanistan, in August 2021. His recovery and continued advocacy have since become a symbol of strength for military families nationwide.
Saturday’s gala also served as a fundraiser supporting Team River Runner, which provides therapeutic outdoor experiences for veterans and their families through adaptive paddle sports. Organized by the Rolling Hills Blue Star Moms Chapter 27, the event brought together supporters in a shared mission to honor sacrifice while advancing resources for those still on the path to recovery.
The evening featured a series of tributes, including a special appearance by Vargas-Andrews and the world premiere of a song dedicated to Silver Star families by performer Tim Maggart, adding a moving artistic element to the program.
The future roadway will be located within Folsom’s South of 50 plan area, near a planned elementary school site and adjoining neighborhood villages, as part of a larger residential development that continues to take shape in the city’s growing southern corridor. The location places the future street within a central community setting, where families, students and residents will pass through daily—further embedding Vargas-Andrews’ legacy into the fabric of the city.
While the gala recognized many stories of courage, the announcement of a future street bearing Vargas-Andrews’ name ensures his legacy—and the sacrifices of so many others—will remain a visible and lasting part of Folsom’s future.
Details on the street’s official naming timeline are expected to be announced as development progresses. Watch for more concerted on Saturday’s event and beneficiaries.
Copyright © 2026, Folsom Times, a digital product of All Town Media LLC. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written permission of the publisher.
