Large Crowd Attends Hometown Heroes Banner Program Dedication Ceremony

Under warm skies, a crowd of approximately 100 people gathered to pay tribute to the honorees of Bethel’s inaugural hometown heroes banner program. Families and friends expressed their gratitude that the Town of Bethel brought the popular program into their community which gave them the opportunity to honor their own war heroes.

The thirty-nine banners honoring local service members, both past and present, were installed on town owned lampposts prior to the ceremony along School Street and will be displayed through Veterans Day.

In addition to the banners, the Bethel Navy JROTC under the command of retired Navy Commander Andrew Ipkovich placed twenty-three US flags on each lamppost inspiring a beautiful display of patriotism.

Speakers included First Selectman Dan Carter, Bethel Patriotic Association President Bill Hagan, Program Advisor Lee Teicholz and State Representative Raghib Allie-Brennan. Kelly Gleason sang the National Anthem and Mike Diminio played taps. Deacon John DeRoin from Saint Mary Parish offered the invocation and benediction.

Program Adviser Lee Teicholz stated that “programs like the Hometown Heroes Banner Program are so important to communities like Bethel so that we may never forget the brave men and women who have served and those serving our nation today.”

Banners for the 2026 display year are currently being sold although there are only twelve positions available. Applications will be handled on a first come, first serve basis. Information about the program can be found by visiting the website www.bethelhometownheroes.org.