An initiative aimed at honoring local veterans: the Grand Bend Legion is currently displaying a series of banners on Main Street bearing their images and stories.
The banner program, a nationwide effort with over 5,000 banners displayed across Canada, was introduced about a decade ago. Its intention is to pay tribute to local veterans and active service members, fostering community engagement and instilling respect for future generations.
Kelly Heafey, the Poppy Chair at the Grand Bend Legion, says that they have just installed their first nine banners this year, with ambitions to expand to 25 by the next year. Each banner is sponsored by a family member or supporter of a veteran.
Byrne’s banner on Main Street is just in front of the Colonial Hotel
Byrne joined Cape Breton Highlanders at fifteen, then the North Nova Scotia Highlanders, and at the age of seventeen, he landed on the beaches of Normandy. His banner is displayed proudly on Main Street.
The Legion played a pivotal role in bringing this heartfelt tribute to fruition, inspired by similar programs in neighboring towns.
The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive.
As Remembrance Day approaches, Heafey stressed the importance of continuing to educate younger generations about the sacrifices of veterans.
Heafey hopes to see the community out to the cenotaph for Remembrance Day celebrations
The Legion is inviting the community to join them in honoring veterans this Remembrance Day by attending the wreath-laying ceremony at the cenotaph, with a service starting just before 11 a.m.
Additionally, they are seeking more banner sponsors for next year, with the hope of filling the town’s main street with the faces and stories of those who served our great nation. If you’re interested in sponsoring a banner, they are eager to see Main Street adorned with these tributes – contact the Legion for more information.
Written by: B. Shakyaver