For the fifth consecutive year, Queen Street in downtown Elmvale is proudly displaying commemorative banners paying tribute to local veterans. This ongoing project is a collaborative effort between the Township of Springwater, the Royal Canadian Legion - Elmvale Branch and the Elmvale Business Improvement Area. With the addition of sixteen new banners this year, featuring thirty-two individuals, the initiative remains dedicated to honoring the bravery and selflessness of our nation’s veterans.
The project was launched in 2020 and now features 160 local veterans. The partnership hopes to keep expanding on the number of veterans recognized in years to come. Those highlighted this year include: Albert Archer, Alex McNeil, Alvin Archer, Archie Smith, Britton Bell, Edward Archer, Emerson Webb, Frank Loftus, George Archer, George Bell, Gordon Kirton, Gordon Spring, Harold Barnes, Harold Lawson, Ivison Spring, Jack Ball, Jack Brock, Jack Spence, James McNeill, James Reid, Jim Fleming, Jim Pearson, John Braithwaite, L. McNeill, Leo Hitz, Lloyd McKnight, Percy Black, Robt. Srigley, Rodney Barnes, Stanley Clute, Wilbert Archer, William Cain.
"It's an immense privilege for the Elmvale Business Improvement Area to partner with the Township and our local Legion in bringing this program to life for the community," says Crystal Graveson, President, Elmvale BIA. "These banners serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by our community’s heroes, ensuring their legacy continues."
“The Elmvale Legion is proud to partner with the Township of Springwater and the Elmvale Business Improvement Area to make this program a reality each year,” says Michael Jacobs, President, Legion Branch 262. “As you view the banners, take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices that these veterans and their families have made to ensure our great nation of Canada is a free and safe country to live in.”
“The program is a great initiative to honour those who have served our country and to remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice,” said Mayor Jennifer Coughlin. “As visitors pass through our community and see the banners, we hope they too, will pause to reflect on the immense impact of our veterans and carry that sense of gratitude with them.” The banners will remain up throughout the month of November
