Local veterans and active duty service members to be honored publicly through Veterans Day
(Schenectady, NY – June 7, 2017) – The Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation (DSIC) and City of Schenectady unveiled new 2017 Hometown Heroes banners today during a ceremony at the Schenectady Armory. Now in its third year, the banner program honors veterans, both living and deceased, and active duty service members from the City and County of Schenectady. Each banner features an individual’s photo, name, and branch of service. Sponsored by companies, organizations, and families, the banners will be displayed on light poles along State Street from Veterans Park to South Church Street and around Schenectady City Hall through Veterans Day.
DOWNLOAD A MAP OF BANNER LOCATIONS AND HONOREE BIOS & SPONSORS
Schenectady Mayor Gary McCarthy said, “We are pleased to partner with the DSIC on this program for a third year. Hometown Heroes is a wonderful way to show public appreciation for local service members while adding visual interest to the streets of our vibrant downtown.”
DSIC Executive Director Jim Salengo said, “The DSIC is extremely proud to work with local families and businesses to bring the stories of Schenectady’s Hometown Heroes to the public again this year. We are honored to recognize these men and women for serving our nation and contributing to our community’s vitality.”
During today’s ceremony, a total of 37 banners honoring Schenectady’s Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps service members were unveiled one-by-one by sponsors, honorees, and members of AMVETS Post 35. Several additional banners will be completed and installed in early July.
Major corporate sponsorship for the Hometown Heroes banner program is provided for the third year by SEFCU. Said SEFCU President and CEO Michael J. Castellana, “The men and women of our armed forces truly understand the meaning of honor, courage, and sacrifice. SEFCU is proud to once again recognize these individuals who put country first to protect all that we hold dear.”
Special assistance for today’s ceremony was provided by the Schenectady Armory, the Creative Advantage, Bayly’s Rentals, AMVETS Post 35, Tara Burnham, and the Schenectady Ambassadors Program.