Hometown Heroes Banner Program Calls for Community Participation

The deadline to sign up for the Hometown Heroes Banner Program is approaching. The initiative, led by the American Legion Bunt-Brewer Post 165, urges community members to take part in honoring local veterans. Those interested must submit paperwork for the banners by the end of February. The program, which originated in Harrisburg, PA, in 2006, seeks to celebrate the dedication, courage, and service of living and deceased veterans.

Interested individuals can apply for the program by visiting post165.godaddysites.com or contacting the American Legion Bunt-Brewer Post 165 at (845) 243-0655. Inquiries can also be emailed to Legion165Commander@gmail.com.

For those looking to pay tribute to a local veteran, application forms are available at Town and Village halls in Tannersville and Hunter or online at their websites. Applicants must be full-time residents of the Town of Hunter to be eligible. Individuals working in Town limits but not residing there do not qualify for participation.

Commander James Jones of American Legion Bunt-Brewer Post 165 emphasized the program's inclusivity, stating, "We're honoring everyone out there and want to recognize those currently serving and those who came before us. We want people to know that Post 165 is still an active part of the community."

The banners, featuring a photo of the military member, their name, rank, branch, and years of service, will also highlight any military conflicts or non-conflicts. Eligible veterans must have been honorably discharged and live or have lived within town limits.

These banners will serve as visual tributes to the stories of hometown heroes, powerfully portraying their service. They will be displayed in the villages of Hunter and Tannersville, the Town of Hunter, and hamlets of Lanesville, Elka Park, Haines Falls, Platte Clove, and Edgewood.

Specific Details:

Each banner is designed to be unique, paying tribute to a specific former or current resident who has served in the Armed Forces. Each banner will feature a photograph of the honoree, accompanied by their name, branch of service, and, if applicable, details about the non-combat or military conflict in which they served.

The dimensions of the banners are set at 24 x 48 inches, and they will be presented in full color. The deadline for submitting the application, payment, and photograph is February 28. Ensure that your name, address, and phone number are written on the back of the picture. If requested, the photo will be returned upon order fulfillment. To help minimize expenses for the American Legion, consider sending a digital or original copy.

Qualifications required for the banner application include proof of service in the United States Armed Forces (such as DD 214, awards, or government ID). The honoree should be a current community member or have resided here before their passing, with sponsoring family members living in the community or being residents at the time of service. 

The photograph submitted should be at least 3 x 5 inches but no larger than 8 x 10 inches. Approval of the application is contingent upon review by the Hometown Heroes Veterans Banner Committee of American Legion Post 165.

Checks or money orders for $135 should be payable to Bunt-Brewer Post 165 and included with the completed application form and the chosen photograph. 

Mail to:

American Legion Bunt-Brewer Post 165

PO Box 1065,

Tannersville, N.Y. 12485

The banners will be put up by Memorial Day (May 27) and taken down after Veteran's Day.

As the deadline looms, the Hometown Heroes Banner Program encourages the community to join in and ensure that the stories of local veterans are recognized and celebrated for their contributions to the community and nation.