Reaching Out Further: Hometown Heroes Banners Program to Extend Into More Communities
The revered Hometown Heroes banners program, an integral part of Oneida County, New York’s offering, is now marked for extension to more communities. Oneida County Executive, Anthony J. Picente Jr. has announced that the initiative, purposed to honor military veterans, will commence the uptake of entries for new banners starting February 1st. The expansion includes towns like Whitestown, Paris, Bridgewater, as well as the village of Waterville, Sauquoit hamlet, and West Winfield village in Herkimer County, who are all slated to host these tribute banners.
A Story of Success: The Hometown Heroes Banners Program’s Progress
Since its inauguration in January 2022, the Hometown Heroes banners program has recorded remarkable progress within just a span of two years. The program initially started with around 200 banners strategically arranged along the Memorial Parkway in Utica. Now, it has bloomed to host 750 banners in various locations such as Rome city, New Hartford town, and village among others. Furthermore, Whitesboro and Yorkville villages are also included in the program’s extension. The massive reception of the program validates the local community’s deep-seated respect and thankfulness for the immense service and sacrifice by the veterans.
Saluting Our Heroes: Celebrating Veterans, Dead or Alive
Each banner, at a cost of $150, uniquely pays tribute to the veterans (both alive and deceased), highlighting the veteran’s identifying details such as name, rank, years served, military branch, and a picture. The banners hang proudly from Memorial Day through to Veterans Day for three consecutive years, creating a lasting impression of the veterans’ duty to their country, our country. This program has been lauded far and wide for encouraging community involvement, stirring pride among families, communities, and naturally, the veterans themselves.
Voicing Support: Endorsing the Initiative
The initiative draws sponsorship from reputed names such as the New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association and Harley Davidson of Utica. These organizations extend their backing as a way to express shared gratitude for the service rendered by the veterans and a wish to uphold their visual homage in the community. With the ongoing outreach of the Hometown Heroes banners program, Oneida County ceaselessly celebrates and commemorates the gallant veterans whose service has painted these towns with visible signs of patriotic service.
