For the fourth consecutive year, Queen Street in downtown Elmvale is displaying commemorative banners paying tribute to local veterans.
Springwater Township says this ongoing project is a collaborative effort between the municipality, the Royal Canadian Legion's Elmvale branch and the Elmvale Business Improvement Area.
With the addition of 16 new banners this year, featuring 32 individuals, the township says the program remains dedicated to honouring the bravery and selflessness of our nation’s veterans.
The project was launched in 2020 and now features 128 local veterans.
The township hopes to see the partnership keep expanding on the number of veterans recognized in years to come.
Those highlighted this year include Adam Grier, Alex Cameron, Bill O’Neill, Bob Gossling, Bruce Gray, Don Currie, Douglas Naismith, Earl MacNeill, Edward Crowe, Edward O’Neill, Elgin Ritchie, Emmett Coughlin, Hamley Hoskin, Hilliard C. Webb, Jack Moran, Jack O’Halloran, James Bell, James Cummin, Joe O’Neill, John O’Neill, Lorne Lawson, Morley Thompson, Norman Brock, Norman Grier, Norman White, Owen Smith, Richard Peters, Richard Tubman, Roy Arnold, Russ Whitton, Stanley Keith and WM. Bell.
“The Elmvale Business Improvement Area is proud to partner with the Township of Springwater and the Elmvale legion on this important initiative,” Elmvale BIA president Crystal Graveson said in a news release. “We invite you to visit downtown Elmvale this November to view the banners and show your respect for those who dedicated themselves to defending our nation.”
“The Elmvale legion is pleased with the expansion of the banner program once again this year,” said Legion Branch 262 president Graham Simmonds. “It is our firm belief that every one of our community’s local heroes deserves to be acknowledged and we look forward to these banners showcasing the enduring legacy of our veterans.”
“On Remembrance Day we honour the unwavering courage and selflessness of our veterans,” said Mayor Jennifer Coughlin. “We hope that this initiative inspires our community to pause and contemplate the profound sacrifices made by these remarkable individuals to secure our freedoms.”
The banners will remain up throughout the month of November.
For information on Remembrance Day ceremonies happening locally, click here.