BEREA – Banners honoring local veterans and active-duty military members have been installed along Chestnut Street as part of Berea’s first Community Heroes Banner Program. 

The program was created as a partnership between Berea Tourism and the City of Berea to recognize community members who have served in the United States military. The banners include photographs of current and former service members alongside information regarding their military service. The display is meant to give residents and visitors a reminder of the people from Berea who served the country.

“The Berea Community Heroes Banner Program was created to honor the men and women who have served our country while bringing the community together in a meaningful and visible way,” Nancy Conley, Berea's tourism director, told The Edge in an email. “We were inspired by the many successful programs across Kentucky and the nation and wanted to create a tribute that reflects Berea’s deep appreciation for those who have served.”

The banners will be displayed from July through November in both 2026 and 2027. Even though this is the first year of the Community Heroes Banner Program in Berea, the hope is that the display will become a tradition that continues in the community for future years, according to Conley. 

Applications for the banner program were accepted from May 11 through June 1. The program had a capacity of 50 banners. Each application included a photograph of the person being honored, their branch of military service, years of service, and other information about their military background.

“The photographs featured on the banners were submitted directly by the applicants, many of them treasured family images that represent generations of military service and preserve the stories of those who served,” Conley said.

For some families, the program gives them an opportunity to share the story of a relative who may have served decades ago. Others submitted banners recognizing family who are currently serving in the military. Placing the banners in a public location lets these personal and family stories to become a part of the entire Berea community.

"The banners honoring our veterans that are through town, I have had more positive comments than anything that we've done in the ten years that I've been involved in city government," Berea Mayor Bruce Fraley said during a recent City Council meeting. Fraley thanked Conley, Tourism, as well as City Administrator Shawn Sandlin, the Public Works Department and "many people that I probably don't even know were involved, so many compliments on that."

“Families have shared how meaningful it is to see their loved ones recognized in such a visible and lasting way, and many veterans have expressed their appreciation for a program that honors those who have served,” Conley said. “This program is about much more than banners. It is about preserving stories, honoring sacrifice, and ensuring that the service of our veterans and active-duty military members is recognized by future generations. We are especially grateful to the families who entrusted us with their photographs and stories, making this inaugural program possible.”

After the two-year display ends, each banner will be given to the family or person who submitted their respective photos for the campaign.