The Farmville Town Council Infrastructure Committee held a joint meeting July 2 with the Piedmont Area Veteran Council (PAVC) to discuss a request on behalf of PAVC for a Hometown Heroes Banner Project.

According to PAVC Founder and CEO Sarah Dunn, the council in conjunction with the Town of Farmville, Farmville Area Chamber of Commerce, Red Door 104 LLC and the Farmville Downtown Partnership are in the active planning process of the project.

The new project will consist of displaying banners with a photograph of an active duty or military veteran on light poles throughout downtown Farmville. “We will also hold a preview party for the donating families allowing us to honor each hero and their families as they see the banners for the first time,” Dunn explained.

Because this project is in the planning stages, PAVC is just now beginning to take orders for those who would like to have a banner of their hero displayed, and it is uncertain as to when the council will decide to post them.

During the meeting with the Infrastructure Committee, Farmville Town Manager Gerald Spates told members that the town had identified 45 places where banners could be installed. “There is no additional cost to the town other than the labor of installing these banners,” said Spates.

Currently, PAVC is working with a banner company to keep the cost as low as possible for citizens wishing to take part in the project, and according to Dunn banners are expected to cost each family less than $200. “I think it is a great opportunity to show our support to local veterans,” said at large councilmember Tom Pairet. “Anytime you get the chance to support the very people who in some instances, have given their lives for our freedom; I feel very compelled to help support them in any manner I can.”

Farmville Town Council Ward E representative and Infrastructure Committee member Jamie Davis said he felt this project was an excellent way for the residents and community to honor the local hometown heroes. “It is important to give credit where credit is due. I once heard it said that one of the greatest leadership qualities one can have is gratitude,” said Davis. “I am glad that the committee is unanimous in recommending to the council to work together with The Piedmont Veterans Council on the Hometown Heroes Project.”

Anyone interested in receiving more information about this program may contact PAVC at pavc23901@aol.com or (434) 392-4142. Banner orders are being taken now by PAVC Board Member Frank Medlin at (704) 619-6671.