Hometown Heroes Remembered: Veterans Banner Project Brings Community Together
This Independence Day weekend, streets in Wheelersburg, Ohio, are lined with more than 60 double-sided banners proudly flying high above Ohio River Road, Gallia Pike, Center Street, and throughout the Porter Township Park. Each one honors a local veteran or active service member—a moving tribute to the men and women who have served our country.
Sun Sign Company was honored to handle the print work for this important project. It was organized and led by the Wheelersburg Community Partnership, with special thanks to Karen Mershon, who spearheaded the effort, and Bobbi Rae Madden Hunt, whose beautiful designs brought each banner to life.
This initiative—Wheelersburg’s first-ever Hometown Hero Banner Project—is a shining example of what a community can achieve when it comes together to honor its own. And for us at Sun Sign Company, it was personal.
A Personal Connection
"As a small business owner, it’s always great to be involved in a community project such as this. But particularly so when one of the honorees is your dad,” says David Williams, owner of Sun Sign Company."
David’s father served proudly in the Korean War—a part of his life he rarely spoke of, yet one that left a lasting impression on his character.
“He never talked much about it,” David recalls, “but it drilled into him mannerisms that he carried until his passing in 1996—the staunch respect he showed in his salute to the flag, his stance, always shoulders up, and the way he clicked his heels together before changing standing positions like he was hearing, ‘About Face. Forward March!’”
As a kid playing army, David remembers his father teaching him the special cadence and rhythm he used when reciting his dog tag number."
“Dad told me that as a United States of America soldier, the only thing he was allowed to say if he was ever caught behind enemy lines was that number—and that he was to say it proudly even if the enemy was beating him. I’m 66 now and I can still rattle off that number better than my own Social Security number.”
Whether or not he saw combat, David’s father was, in every sense, a proud soldier and a proud American. And while he never would have asked for recognition, David made the choice—as project printer and as a son—to include a banner honoring his father among those flying above the main intersection in Wheelersburg.
“He would have said, ‘There are so many more deserving. Give it to them.’ But this was my way of saying thank you—something I never told him while he was alive. I hope he knows now.”
A Community Effort Worth Celebrating
The Hometown Hero Banner Project wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of many hands and hearts. The Porter Township Fire Department generously volunteered their time and equipment to hang the banners. And, a special shoutout to all of the family members who pulled out the old pictures and relayed to us their heros' stories! We never tire hearing them.
The Wheelersburg Community Partnership shared this message on social media:
“We were so PROUD to do the first-ever Hometown Hero Banner project representing those who have served and are currently serving in our military! As you come into Wheelersburg off U.S. Route 52—the LCPL Jonathan E. Etterling Memorial Highway—you’ll see his banner welcoming you. Our goal is to add even more next year. Thanks to everyone who made this possible!”
This goal to expand the banner program means that even more veterans and active-duty service members will be honored in the years to come. As a business rooted in Southern Ohio, Sun Sign Company is proud to support this ongoing tribute and looks forward to being involved again next year.
Why Projects Like This Matter
These banners do more than decorate the town—they start conversations. They connect generations. They remind us of the courage, sacrifice, and patriotism of the people who once walked the same streets we do today.
During holidays like Memorial Day and Independence Day, these visual tributes stand as powerful reminders of what it means to serve—and how deeply that service shapes lives and communities.
They also reflect the unique identity of Wheelersburg and other small towns like it across America—where pride in country and in each other still runs deep.
Built to Last, Printed with Pride
At Sun Sign Company, our role in this project was to ensure that the banners looked as good on day one as they will after seasons of wind, rain, and sun. Each banner was printed on durable, fade-resistant material with sharp detail and rich color. The double-sided layout ensures visibility no matter the direction of traffic—making every honoree seen and appreciated.
“This was more than a print job. This was a way to give something back,” David says. “We approached each banner like we were printing one for our own family—because in a way, we were.”
Looking Ahead
This is just one of several community projects Sun Sign Company has been privileged to be part of. In addition to working with the Wheelersburg Community Partnership and the local American Legion, we’ve supported schools, emergency services, churches, and nonprofits across Ohio, Kentucky, and West Virginia.
We believe in putting our skills to work where they matter most—honoring legacies, inspiring pride, and making sure important messages get seen.
Stay tuned for a future post highlighting our work with the American Legion on a new commemorative display using custom cut vinyl stencils.
Thank You to All Who Serve
As we celebrate Independence Day, we take a moment to remember all those who have sacrificed for our freedoms. Whether you served in combat or peacetime, on the front lines or behind the scenes, we say thank you. To the families who’ve lost loved ones in service—we honor your strength and your sacrifice.
From all of us at Sun Sign Company:
Thank you for your service. Thank you for your sacrifice. And thank you for reminding us what freedom really means.
Want to Start a Banner Program in Your Community?
If you're part of a community group, veterans organization, or township interested in starting a Hometown Heroes banner program, [Request a Quote] or call Sun Sign Company. We’re proud to help bring your vision to life and honor the heroes in your town.