In time for Remembrance Day, Leeton Shire Council is pleased to announce the installation of street banners around town featuring individuals who served and returned from service, either originating from or settling in Leeton, and who have become integral to the fabric of our community.
Mayor Cr George Weston said the initiative is a heartfelt tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country.
"Their stories and sacrifices are woven into the very essence of Leeton, and it is an honour to commemorate them in this way," he said.
The banners showcase a variety of family connections, such as William Eason alongside his niece Mary, with photos contributed by Mary's daughter-in-law, Marie Eason. The Andrews/Whittaker family is also prominently featured, with contributions from Jan Whittaker, highlighting her grandfather, father, mother, father-in-law, mother-in-law, and aunt.
William Borger, the first submission received, returned from serving in the Middle East and New Guinea to work at Letona. Other notable mentions include Clarance Tayt and Raymond Runga, both awarded the Military Medal for acts of bravery in WW1, and Edward Levings, who received an OBE for his service as a POW in North Africa during WW2. Fay Hopcraft, who served in Vietnam, was the first female in uniform posted to a war zone since WW2. Many of those featured were prisoners of war.
Submissions were made through the Leeton RSL sub-Branch and the Leeton Local Family History Society, with most contributions coming from family members. While some photos were too small to use on the banners, all contributions are being collated for a future display on the water tower.
The Remembrance Day service (Mon, 11 November 2024) will commence at 10.45am, with a minute's silence marked by the sounding of the Leeton Fire Station siren at 11am. Traffic around the roundabout will be stopped for the observance of the minute (there will be no road closures).
There are 16 banners in the works to complete the set, with additional artworks in progress. The second set of banners is scheduled for completion by Anzac Day 2025. Contributions are welcome until February 2025 or until the set is full. Contributors are asked to provide a photo of decent size and quality, with details including service number, rank, and area of service.
This project, valued at $6,600, is fully funded through the Department of Veteran's Affairs' Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program.
