By Steffen Klenk
Drivers along Ocean Heights Avenue in Egg Harbor Township may have noticed something special in recent months. Lined along the bustling roadway more than 25 decorative banners, each one displaying the name and photo of a local member of our United States Armed Forces. These individuals, both living and deceased, are being brought to the spotlight as part of the Hometown Heroes Banner Program.
Donna Burns is the founder and volunteer for the local Hometown Hero Banner initiative, a project that serves as a living tribute for the community to both honor and recognize our local military population. The banners, which are hung from poles lining the roadway, are being proudly displayed Between Memorial Day and Veterans Day.
The project took shape two years ago after Burns noticed similar banners in Pennsylvania. She began doing research on the program and reached out to the mayor’s office to begin the process. “I’d seen them in other towns and thought I would love to see that in our town.”
From there, she began reaching out to local veterans’ groups interested in assisting with the project and garnering interest. Mark Doherty, commander of American Legion Post 295, says the banner program is an opportunity to show pride in the service of local veterans. “We are so pleased with the overwhelming support we received from the mayor and other elected officials, the Roads Department, and all those who had a hand in bringing this program to a successful conclusion.”
So far, the program has been adopted locally in Egg Harbor Township and Northfield. To qualify for a banner, each veteran must have a connection to the local area, whether they have lived in the area or attended school locally.
The Hometown Hero Banner Program originally launched in Harrisburg, Pa. in 2006 and has spread to various cities and towns throughout the country. Each of the banners is made in the United States, printed on durable vinyl, with cast aluminum brackets and fiberglass arms with reinforced sleeves to ensure easy installation and longevity.
This ongoing initiative is bringing members of the community together in a special way that honors and pays tribute to those who have not only served but also sacrificed.
Members of Burns’ family served in the military, including her husband, Joe Burns, a 33-year Air Force veteran, and her late father, John Russo, who served in the Navy. She described how important this project is not just to her, but to the community. “It’s for the love of the veterans and what they do for our country. This is my small contribution to let them know that they are appreciated, were appreciated, and still are appreciated.”
Doherty expressed his thanks to all who help make this local initiative possible. “As a veteran I am most grateful to Donna Burns for her tireless work in making this program successful.”
Over the past few months, interest in the project has grown. Recent posts on social media showed the installation of the banners along Ocean Heights Avenue. Plans are also in place to bring the initiative to Northfield, with further details and announcements coming soon.
If you are interested in learning more about the local Hometown Hero Banner Program, you can reach out to Donna Burns by emailing dburns054@comcast.net. You may also email Mike Doherty, commander at American Legion Post 295, at mbdoherty@comcast.net, or Jerry Crosson, vice commander, at tas331@comcast.net.
Steffen Klenk is a photographer and multimedia journalist who enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life. You may contact Steffen at shorelocalsteffen@gmail.com.
