The City of Poplarville, in collaboration with the Poplarville Chamber of Commerce, celebrated Veterans Day by launching the “Hometown Heroes” Banner Program. The program honors local veterans with banners displayed around the town green. Families submitted photos and names of loved ones who have served, and the response exceeded all expectations. Fifty banners are currently in place, and 56 others are on a waitlist.

“This is an event that the Poplarville Area Chamber of Commerce brought about,” said Treasurer and Board member Carol William. “We wanted to do something to honor our veterans, but we had no idea we would get such a response. We have 50 banners encircling the town green and 56 others on a waitlist, ready to go up in the future.”

The concept for the banner program originated from similar displays along the Gulf Coast, where towns such as Bay Saint Louis and Pass Christian have honored veterans with their displays. The banners for Poplarville were designed locally by Corey Gara of Corey Gara Designs and then produced by a company in Connecticut. “We are the first place they’ve ever sold this many banners to with such a small population,” William noted. “We’re only 2,866 residents, and we have 50 banners up. We’re very proud of it.”

Mayor Louise Smith, in a speech during the event, expressed her pride in the community’s patriotism and gratitude for local veterans’ service. “Today, we come together to honor the extraordinary men and women who have served in our armed forces,” Smith said. “Veterans Day is more than a moment to pause—it’s a time to remember the courage, sacrifice, and dedication shown by those who put their lives on the line for our freedom.”

In closing, Smith addressed the veterans in attendance, “To all veterans here today, and those who couldn’t be with us, we offer our deepest gratitude. Your service has shaped our nation and inspires us to be worthy of your sacrifices.”

The “Hometown Heroes” banners, which highlight living and deceased veterans, will remain in place for the Veterans Day celebration. Community members interested in participating in future installments are encouraged to join the Poplarville Chamber of Commerce waitlist.