Elyria Continues Veterans Banner Program for Fifth Year

Elyria, Ohio, March 13, 2026 — The City of Elyria, in partnership with Elyria Council of Veterans (ECV), is proud to announce the return of the Hometown Heroes Banner Program. The program honors local veterans by displaying their name, branch of service and photo on a full-color, double- sided banner along lampposts throughout downtown Elyria. This marks the fifth year of the program and the fourth year of the Council’s partnership. Registration is now open for new banners, which will be installed in May. Thanks to fundraising efforts by members of the Elyria Council of Veterans, the cost of each banner will remain at $35. “Because of the support and donations from our Council members, we’re able to keep the banners affordable so more veterans can be honored,” said Bob Childers, commander of the Elyria Council of Veterans. “It’s a meaningful way for our community to recognize those who served.” The city has made additional lamp posts available downtown, allowing for 40 new banners this year. Banners will be displayed along Middle Avenue, Third Street, Second Street, Broad Street and Kerstetter Way. City crews will hang the banners in May, where they will remain on display through Veterans Day in November. “The Hometown Heroes Banner Program is not just a patriotic gesture, but a way for the city to show our appreciation for the sacrifices made by the veterans of Elyria,” said Elyria Mayor, Kevin A. Brubaker. “I first saw the program while serving as Safety Service Director and got behind it immediately. Now, as the mayor, I want to ensure the program continues and grows.” Banners are designed to last for three years and will be returned to the veteran or their family. Due to high demand, retired banners are currently not eligible for reapplication. The program is open to any veteran with past or present ties to the City of Elyria. Complete information, including a map of where each veteran banner is located and order form can be found on the city’s website at cityofelyria.org/hometownhero.