Hometown Heroes banners to be displayed in O'Hara

O’Hara’s roads will be dotted with new banners saluting Hometown Heroes as the military program renews.

The township will accept reservations for banners to honor those who have served the U.S. Armed Forces.

“Council loves the banner program, as it honors true heroes of our community,” township Manager Julie Jakubec said.

“We love to recognize the women and men who are serving or have served our great country.”

Banners have become a familiar site throughout the region, with programs started in recent years in several communities. Blawnox, Aspinwall and Sharpsburg have all hosted the program.

Jakubec said residents can apply for a banner by visiting the township website.

The signs, 24 by 36 inches, will display the person’s name, branch of service, medals of valor, if applicable, and a photo.

The cost is $125 and includes two smaller versions for the applicant’s personal use.

Banners will be hung on utility posts and telephone poles along Fox Chapel Road, Kittanning Pike and other township roads and will appear online at troopbanners.com.

The applications are taken on a first-come, first-served basis but Jakubec said it is likely that additional permits could be secured from Duquesne Light as needed.

O’Hara has offered the program in the past, and at one time received a grant from the District Association to help people offset banner costs.

The District Association is a nonprofit that funds beautification projects not paid by tax dollars. The group, in past years, approved a grant to pay for up to 25 banners in each community of the Fox Chapel Area School District.

“The program is not currently associated with any other organizations,” Jakubec said. “The applicant pays the needed fees.”

Banners will remain on display through Veteran’s Day, Nov. 11.