The Towns of AuSable and Chesterfield are partnering with local families to present the Hometown Heroes Banner Program. The banner program is designed to recognize active duty and veteran servicepersons from the both towns. Each sponsored banner will include an individual’s photo, name, and branch of service. Banners will be displayed on light poles from Memorial Day until Veterans Day.
Derrick Hopkins, who initiated the program, states, “I’d love to take credit for having this idea. However, Robin Belize and Win Belanger brought this program to Willsboro a few years ago. Driving to work and seeing the banners have been one of the highlights of my commute to work.” He continues, “One day I simply made up my mind that I wanted to bring the program to Keeseville to honor our active and retired service men and women. I spoke to both Town supervisors and Boards and got the green light! Two Town Board members from each Town joined: Clayton Barber and David Gload from the Town of Chesterfield and Jim King and Scot Zmijewski from the Town of AuSable.” Derrick concludes, “Our military has provides an important service in maintaining our freedom, and this is one way in which we can honor and thank them for their sacrifices.”
“It’s important that we do this as another way to show veterans that we appreciate them, and what these local veterans gave up for our freedom,” said committee member, Clayton Barber. “It will keep our future kids asking the reason why their picture is on a banner hanging on the pole, so we can explain why it’s up there.” He concludes, “Hopefully, it’s someone they know, so we can tell them there are many more heroes we don’t know.”
To apply, applications can be picked up in various locations around Keeseville. In the Town of AuSable, applications can be obtained from the Town office, TD Bank, Stewart’s Shop, and Arnold’s Grocery. In the Town of Chesterfield, applications can be obtained from the Town office, Keeseville Pharmacy, Loreman’s, Adirondack Hardware, and Keeseville Post Office. The application can be downloaded from the Keeseville Hometown Heroes Facebook page. Applications may also be emailed directly to you by contacting Derrick Hopkins at dary.hop@gmail.com. Applications must be completed and submitted by March 25, 2017 in order for banners to be printed in a timely manner.
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