NEW ROCHELLE, NY — The New Rochelle Veterans Advisory Committee was joined by officials from American Legion Post 8 and the City of New Rochelle to celebrate the installation of “Hometown Heroes” banners this morning at Faneuil Park.
Veterans, banner sponsors and military moms were on hand along with Cpl. Guadalupe Mendoza.
“We are committed to honoring the sacrifices of our military and veteran community,” said Tommy O’Keefe, Commander of American Legion Post 8. “This effort shows the deep commitment of New Rochelle to honor our fellow veterans, those currently serving in uniform, and those who made the supreme sacrifice. This is all toward the goal of enhancing our mission and driving toward our long-term objectives.”
The Hometown Heroes banner program was announced on Veterans Day 2019 and rolled out in early 2020, with 27 applications received. Each banner includes the honoree’s picture, name, branch and date of service. This is the first phase of an envisioned larger rollout honoring more of New Rochelle’s hometown heroes in the future.
“This project highlights positive collaboration between the City and Legion Post 8 as well as confirming the respect New Rochelle has for our military.” Lt. Commander Brett Morash U.S. Navy (Ret.) Chairman of New Rochelle Veteran Advisory Committee stated. “I find all veterans’ stories inspiring, from those serving in the combat arms to the cook who kept them fed or the logistician that kept them supplied. Every one of them are heroes in my mind and these banners are recognition of the diversity of service reflected in our nation’s military. As you will see there are members that served from WWI to currently serving active duty and reserve members of the military.” L
The project was spearheaded by VAC member Lupita Mendoza a former Corporal of Marines. New Rochelle’s Department of Public Works installed the banners.
Mayor Noam Bramson said, “This moving tribute reminds all of us of the profound impact veterans and service members have had on our community of New Rochelle. I am deeply grateful to Lupita Mendoza, the Veterans Advisory Committee, and American Legion Post 8 for spearheading this project, and am sure that many residents will draw inspiration from the Hometown Heroes displayed on these banners.”
After the event, there was a walking tour to view the banners which are installed along Main and Huguenot Streets between Echo and Stephenson Boulevard.