The Town of North Hempstead passed a resolution that establishes a program to recognize local war veterans at the town parks.
On February 4, the town board unanimously passed a resolution by Councilwoman Christine Liu to launch the Hometown Heroes Program at parks throughout the town. Liu spearheaded the new program.
The initiative gives residents the opportunity to purchase banners that can be customized to spotlight veterans from communities across the town. The North Hempstead Parks Department will hang each banner before Memorial Day, and they will remain in place through Veterans Day of that same year. The banners will be available for $125 through March 14.
“The names you will see displayed at our parks represent a special class of citizens who selflessly gave of themselves to protect the citizens of this country,” said Liu. “It fills me with great pride that our parks will serve as local memorials, not only preserving the legacy of our heroes, but also teaching our children and our families about their sacrifices in the process. I worked hand-in-hand with our Parks Department on this Veterans program and I’m grateful for their assistance in displaying these meaningful banners in our parks.”
“This is special because it gives residents a chance to honor their loved ones and to share that pride right in their own neighborhoods, in the parks we all love and use every day,” Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena said. “It helps us learn about the valor and dedication of those quiet neighbors, those unsung heroes who are all around us.”
North Hempstead’s Parks Department staff will work directly with residents to ensure the banners’ accuracy. Orders can be placed online at www.northhempsteadny.gov or in-person at the help desk of Michael J. Tully Park, 1801 Evergreen Ave, in New Hyde Park. Payments can be made by credit card or a check or money order to the Town of North Hempstead.