NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The Northern Berkshire Veterans' Services Office has announced the opening of the Hometown Hero Banner Program across multiple area municipalities, offering local communities an opportunity to publicly honor military service members and veterans.

 

The regional initiative includes participation from Adams, Cheshire, Clarksburg, Florida, Lanesborough, North Adams, Savoy, and Williamstown.

 

Designed to commemorate all active-duty service members, as well as living, discharged, and deceased veterans, the program installs personalized banners featuring photos and details of local heroes on municipal telephone poles and streetlights.

 

Community Banner Details

 

Adams: Expanding its existing Park Street tribute—which previously honored only those killed in action—to include all active, living, and deceased veterans.

 

North Adams: Rolling out a second wave of banners across the city following strong community participation during the initial launch.

 

Lanesborough: Program operations are being managed directly through Town Clerk Ruth Knysh (413-442-1351).

 

Clarksburg, Cheshire, & Williamstown: Currently accepting applications while finalizing banner placement locations based on total participation.

 

Florida & Savoy: Applications are open, though final town approvals remain pending ahead of upcoming Town Meetings (Florida's vote is slated for Aug. 26).

 

Costs and Application Process

Banners are expected to cost between $125 and $150, varying slightly by municipality and banner size.

 

According to organizers, the fee covers initial production, ongoing maintenance, and replacement banners. A portion of the proceeds will also fund a hardship assistance program to ensure financial constraints do not prevent veterans from being recognized. Organizers noted that a minimal renewal fee may be instituted in the future to maintain the banners long-term.

 

Residents interested in sponsoring a banner for a family member or local veteran can contact the Northern Berkshire Veterans' Services Office at 413-662-3040 for application details and requirements.