Harriston Legion Branch 296 will be hosting its 75th anniversary party in August, and in order to come up with a new and unusual way to celebrate, anniversary committee chair Gary Thackeray referenced a project carried out in New Brunswick.
Veterans and/or their families have been contacted regarding an opportunity to honour a past or present member of the Canadian Forces.
Phase 1 will consist of up to 15 sponsored special banners hung on the light posts on the town’s main street. Response to the idea has been positive and it is anticipated that Phase 2 will be continued in 2015 with another 15 banners.
The banners will be on display for the month of October and until after Nov. 11 each year for three years and then will be retired and returned to the family or sponsors.
Legion officials feel this is a novel way of saluting local veterans, and although the idea has been gaining momentum across the nation it is believed Harriston is the first in Zone 3C to embark on the project.
While this new project requires donations and sponsorship, Legion officials stress it is not to be construed as a replacement for the poppy fund. The annual poppy drive will continue as usual.
To commemorate Harriston Legion’s 75th anniversary, and also the 65th anniversary of the Ladies’ Auxiliary, one banner will be unveiled on Aug. 16 at 11:30am.
There will also be a corn roast and numerous events and displays at the Legion during the special commemorative day.
The banner will only be on display for one day, but it will return in October for a parade of veteran banners lining the main street until after Remembrance Day.
submitted by Willa Wick
