Coalhurst Council approves veteran memorial poster project in town

By Erika Mathieu
Sunny South News

Coalhurst Legion Branch No. 273 has announced the upcoming introduction of the Banner Project to the town.

The project is a unique initiative aimed at commemorating and honouring past and present veterans using a series of banners. These banners will be displayed for a few weeks in the fall and stored for future displays, illustrating the enduring respect that Coalhurst has for its veterans. The Town of Coalhurst has granted permission to hang the banners on the light standards across the town, a fitting location. The Coalhurst Legion is still deliberating on a supplier and the cost implications of the project and intends to share detailed information in the forthcoming newsletter. The Banner Project is a remarkable way for Coalhurst to recognize and pay tribute to the veterans who have served Canada.

The Legion Memorial Banner Program is an initiative by the Royal Canadian Legion that involves displaying banners on local streets in Canada in memory of veterans who have served in the military. The program gives families and individuals the opportunity to honour and pay tribute to their loved ones who have served and sacrificed for the country. The banners are hung on street poles and feature a photo of the veteran, along with their name, branch of service, and dates of service. The program serves as a way to recognize and acknowledge the service and sacrifice of Canadian veterans in the community, and also fosters a sense of pride and gratitude for the country’s military history.

During the June 20 regular council meeting, Council discussed a formal request submitted by mail by the Coalhurst Legion requesting that the Town approve an annual “fee for service” agreement. The agreement would acknowledge the services provided by the Legion to the town and surrounding areas. One of the vital services provided by the Legion is offering a dedicated meeting place for the Seniors 55+ Club, free of charge. Many municipalities subsidize or provide for seniors groups, resulting in savings for the Town. The annual Poppy Funds go towards the relief of veterans and programs that aid veterans in reintegrating into society. The Legion also donates to the local seniors club and schools and promotes Remembrance Day. The Legion provides cash rewards between $1,200 to $1,800 for student poster and literacy entries. It is important to note that the Legion is a non-profit organization. The Legion has requested that the Council establish a $4,000 fee for service agreement, which would be reviewed and renewed every four years, and the Legion could produce an annual report.

Each banner will feature personal information and a photo of the veteran, and they can be purchased by anyone wishing to do so. Inquiries regarding the banner details may be made by calling 403-381-3080, sending an email to legionbm273@gmail.com or via the online portal.