Veteran banner program is being expanded

A crew with Tillsonburg Hydro Inc. started the annual task of erecting the 121 banners in the veteran banner program to pay tribute to those who served our country in both world wars, and in the military since the end of the Second World War. Linesman Kyle Jacob was using the bucket truck to erect the first of the banners on Friday morning. (Jeff Helsdon Photo).

Frank Moore, Post Contributor

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 153, Tillsonburg, in partnership with the Tillsonburg Military History Club, were proud to have launched the Memorial Veteran Banner Program in 2023.

A total of 121 banners have been installed to date with the banners being displayed on Veterans Parkway until after Remembrance Day. This program is an exciting opportunity to celebrate, educate, and acknowledge the sacrifices that our service personnel, both past and present, have made so that we can live in peace and enjoy the freedom we have today. The first phase has been tremendously successful and truly a community effort. Thanks goes out to all family sponsors, The Town of Tillsonburg, Tillsonburg Hydro and the initial sponsors, The Lions Club of Tillsonburg and The Rotary Club of Tillsonburg.

To further pay tribute and provide a powerful symbol of collective gratitude, we are launching the second phase of our veteran banner program in collaboration with The Tillsonburg Post. When one views the banners, you may wonder what their story might be with the people honoured. With the support of the sponsor families, we will bring these stories to you and plan to publish weekly an image of the banner along with a brief (50-100 words)background of the veteran.

Applications for the 2026 program will be accepted up to June1, 2026 by contacting Dianne Hodges at veteranbannerprogram@gmail.com . The most asked question is the criteria required to participate in the program. It’s open to all veteran families in the Tillsonburg community that have veterans, deceased and or active service members who have served or are currently serving in the Canadian, Allied or Commonwealth forces including the Merchant Marine.