Twenty-three of Topeka’s Military Hometown Heroes will be recognized on downtown banners beginning on Patriot Day, Sept. 11. To honor them and their families, the Military Veteran Project.Topeka’s Military Hometown Heroes banner program connects the Capital City with other communities in Kansas and across the nation in creating a vibrant tribute for our neighbors who are serving, or have served in the armed forces of the United States.

Spearheaded by the Military Veteran Project, the banner program also is made possible with support from the Military Relations Council, the City of Topeka, Visit Topeka and Downtown Topeka, Inc.

“This event is reminder of the unity in our community and the examples of selfless service and sacrifice that have been made to preserve our freedom,” said Melissa Jarboe, founder of the Military Veteran Project, a volunteer-driven nonprofit focused on prevention of military suicide through research and treatment. MVP is based in Topeka.

MVP received enough applications to recognize a veteran to fill next year’s 40 banner positions as well.

The banners will remain on display downtown through Veterans Day.