New Paltz To Hoist First Ever Veteran Flags On Main Street

Following two years of work all in the name of honoring veterans, Hometown Hero banners will soon fly in New Paltz!

New Paltz Community Works To Honor Veterans

When this project first started two years ago, the focus was, and still remains, on the veterans and their sacrifice. One may assume that getting banners up in town might be a fairly easy process, but that is far from the truth. This project took collaboration from various community partners, individuals and local officials, and now the finished product is nearly here, as Hometown Hero banners have started arriving in New Paltz.

The force behind this incredible display of appreciation for local veterans, MaryAnn Tozzi, didn't realize how much would go into something like this. Tozzi was joined by another community member to help her with the project, and along with the support and assistance from the greater New Paltz community, everything is falling into place. Now, as banner installation nears, Tozzi has shared her deep appreciation to many, but firstly the families of the veterans for their 'patience, support and trust throughout this process.'

Getting to this point took the help, patience, and effort of many people. Sincere thanks to Andrew Mironchik of the New Paltz VFW for serving as the nonprofit partner; KC Budnik of Yokel for compiling and organizing the information and photos; Nicole Depuy for generously providing extensive printer ink and paper; Jason Sifre for the graphic design and banner layouts; Robin Gullickson for the renderings; Ed Burke and George Sifre for working tirelessly to secure funding and coordinate with printers, the town, and the village; Village Mayor Alexandria Wojcik for her continued support and willingness to help at every turn; and Town Supervisor Tim Rogers for helping ensure these banners will ultimately be hung. It is meaningful to see this come together, and there is deep gratitude for the collective effort that made it possible.

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New Paltz To Honor Veterans Down Main Street

Tozzi has spent the past few months collecting applications, payments, information and photos from families about the veteran they wish to honor, verifying service and coordinating banner proofs with partners. Soon, nearly 50 Hometown Hero banners will proudly fly in New Paltz from the Tops Plaza down to the flats, all honoring local veterans with the dignity and respect they deserve.

The community reception has been overwhelmingly positive of the Home Town Heroes banner project, with people sharing their gratitude for those behind the initiative. There's also been a great deal of excitement and anticipation of driving down Main Street and seeing tributes to those who dedicated to much.

This story will be updated with photos of the banners once they've been installed.