State College to honor veterans with military banners

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (WTAJ) – The Downtown State College Improvement District is launching its third Local Hero’s Military Banner Program.

The Downtown State College Improvement District (DSCID) is again partnering with the Penn State Military Appreciation Committee to honor veterans and active service members during Military Appreciation Month. As a gesture of gratitude, families will have the opportunity to pay tribute to their military family members and friends with personalized lamp-post banners that will be displayed throughout Downtown State College.

This collaborative effort aims not only to showcase support but also to provide a platform for families and friends to honor their loved ones who have served their country bravely.

“I think it’s a really big part of being in a small town, and I think it’s wonderful to be able to see their faces and know that they’re connected to our town in some way and to show how proud we are of the military community here,” Executive Director Lee Anne Jeffries said.

The banners will be installed in the streets of Downtown State College starting in October. Then the community will have the opportunity to them throughout November 2024 and 2025. They’ll serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the local military community.

Following their display, these banners will be presented to families, ensuring that the legacy of their loved ones’ service endures.

“This program was born out of a desire to express our appreciation for the individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving our nation. Through this gesture, we not only honor their service but also contribute to the invaluable support provided by the Penn State Military Student Fund scholarship program,” Jeffries said.

Community members are invited to participate by purchasing a Military Appreciation banner for $350. Not only does this offer a personalized tribute to a military hero, but it also supports active service members, veterans, and their dependents through the Penn State Military Student Fund scholarship program.

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“This is the third year Penn State’s Military Appreciation Committee has partnered with the DSCID to recognize local service members and veterans with banners in State College,” Eugene McFeely, Penn State’s Military Appreciation Committee Chair, said. “The veteran banner tradition is profound and shows the community’s support of those who have sacrificed so much in service of our nation and makes me proud to be part of this community.”

To purchase a banner, you must place your orders by August 29. You can purchase them on the Downtown State College website .

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