Greensburg is once again honoring local veterans and first responders through the Hometown Hero Banner project.
The program — a coalition by the Greensburg Community Development Corp., city of Greensburg and Southwest Greensburg — is a way to honor local military and non-military heroes by displaying photos on decorative banners that are displayed throughout both municipalities.
“Due to the popularity of last year’s Hometown Hero Banner project, we are excited for the opportunity to add more banners honoring our local veterans and first responders who’ve selflessly served our country and/or community,” Ashley Kertes, executive director of the Greensburg Community Development Corp., said in a statement.
The project started in 2020 when officials featured heroes alongside banners filled with artwork. Those banners were hung for two years.
This year, banners will be located throughout downtown Greensburg. They will also be on West Second Street, North Maple Avenue, Otterman Street, College Avenue, Pittsburgh Street and Harrison Avenue.
In Southwest Greensburg, banners will be located along South Main Street.
Most banners will be displayed in the spring, weather permitting. The majority will remain on display for the rest of the year, except for several on Main Street and Pennsylvania Avenue that are removed in November to make room for holiday decorations.
After being displayed for two years, banners will be returned to the purchaser.
In addition to the banners, the Greensburg Community Development Corp. is planning a Hometown Hero Celebration. The event is scheduled for May 21, which is Armed Forces Days. Details are to come.
Last year, the event honored 66 military veterans, first responders and the woman who established Sisters of Charity of Seton Hill. The Westmoreland Symphony String Quartet and the Seton Hill Senior University Pipe Band were among organizations that participated in the celebration.
Banners cost $250. Orders will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Orders can be placed online at thinkgreensburg.com/2022-hometown-hero-banner-project. The deadline for reserving a banner is March 4.
