In Mishawaka, Indiana, the Military Hometown Heroes Banner Program stands as a heartfelt tribute to the brave men and women who have served or are currently serving in the United States Armed Forces. This initiative transforms the city’s streets into avenues of honor, showcasing banners that celebrate the dedication and sacrifice of our local heroes.
A Living Tribute to Service
The program was established to recognize military personnel who reside or have resided in Mishawaka—those who proudly call our city their hometown. Each banner, measuring approximately 18” x 37”, features the service member’s name, photograph, military branch, and rank. The banners are color-coded with stars to denote the individual’s service status:
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Active Duty – designated with a blue star |
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Veteran – honorably discharged will be designated with a white star |
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Memorial – those who have died in the line of duty will be designated with a gold star |
These banners are prominently displayed on city lampposts from Memorial Day through Veterans Day, serving as daily reminders of the sacrifices made for our freedoms.
Community Participation and Support
The program is funded through payments and donations, enabling the purchase and placement of the banners. The initial cost per banner is $200, covering production, installation, and removal. If a banner remains in good condition, it can be re-displayed in subsequent years for a fee of $40, which covers installation and removal.
After Veterans Day, the banners are carefully taken down and returned to the individuals who sponsored them, allowing families to keep these tokens of honor or choose to display them again in the future.
Honoring Our Heroes
The Military Hometown Heroes Banner Program is more than a visual display; it’s a community’s collective salute to its defenders. As Mayor Dave Wood aptly stated, “We just always want our citizens to remind them, not just on Veteran’s Day, but all days that there was a sacrifice that was made so that we could have the freedoms that we hold dear today.”
This initiative exemplifies Mishawaka’s deep respect and gratitude for its military members, reinforcing the city’s identity as a place that honors and remembers its heroes every day.
Ordering a Banner
To order a banner, simply download the Application Form and the Release Statement. Return your completed forms along with the requested information and your payment to:
City of Mishawaka – Hometown Heroes Banner Program
c/o Mayor’s Office
100 Lincolnway West
Mishawaka, IN 46544
Please make checks payable to City of Mishawaka.
Also, please add “Hometown Heroes Banner” on the memo line.
For more information or to participate in the program, please contact the Mayor’s Office at (574) 258-1601.
Helpful Links
Current Hometown Heroes
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