The second phase of the Hometown Heroes banner program has begun. Oplinger-Hower American Legion Post 899, of Lehigh Township, recently launched this program to honor men and women of all branches of the military who served our country, whether in war or peacetime. The banners honor both past and present veterans.

Hometown Heroes banners are a unique way to show veterans we care about the sacrifices they have made for our country. All banners are printed on both sides. According to the company, banners are made of heavyweight block-out vinyl, which is extremely durable and holds up well for three-plus years. The banner size will be 30 inches by 60 inches. The company supplies high-quality aluminum brackets to mount the banners on poles where you would like the banner to be placed. These banners fly year-round honoring your hero.

To participate in this program, you will need to fill out a form that lists the first and last name, branch of service, era, status (KIA/POW/MIA) or medals (Purple Heart/Silver Star/Bronze Star). Please also provide a photo for the banner.

Banners will be installed by the Lehigh Township road crew throughout the township on the poles near the veteran’s home and would show our veterans we appreciate their service. Banners like this can be seen in Northampton, Bath, Lehighton and many other communities.

As of Sept. 10, the Legion is now accepting applications for the second phase. The original applications are being processed by the banner company to be printed, and after the Legion receives them back, the road crew will begin to hang the banners as time allows. For the first phase, it is expected 106 banners honoring our township veterans will be put up on the poles by Veterans Day, Nov. 11.

Thank you to all who have already responded and all who have helped to promote this program.

Forms can be picked up at Post 899, 1140 Municipal Road, Walnutport.

For additional information, contact program coordinator Jeff Weidner at 484-426-8639 or the Post at 610-767-2393.

***

Reminder: Hope Lutheran Church is having its 29th annual basket social Oct. 4 in Kuntz Hall at the church, 4131 Lehigh Drive, Cherryville.

For further details, call 610-767-7203.

***

Lehigh Township Lioness-Lions Club will be participating in Boscov’s Friends Helping Friends Day, scheduled for 8 a.m.-11 p.m. Oct. 22.

Call Wanda at 610-597-3298 or any club member with questions.

***

Is your church or organization having a fundraiser or event in Lehigh Township you want to let the community know about? Send me the information at kristinaheschgrover@rcn.com, and I will be happy to announce it in a future column.