Along Malden Road near Town Hall, a striking new tribute catches the eye: fourteen banners honoring local veterans now flutter from streetlight poles, a testament to LaSalle’s deep respect for those who served.
This community-driven project, organized by local veterans’ groups in partnership with the Town of LaSalle, shines a spotlight on men and women from the Canadian Armed Forces, both past and present. Each banner features the name, photo, and branch of service of a veteran with ties to LaSalle or the former Township of Sandwich West. It’s a visual reminder of the sacrifices made by neighbors, friends, and family members to protect Canadian freedoms and values.
A ceremony at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 594 marked the installation of the banners. Veterans, officials, and residents gathered to recognize the honorees and reflect on their service. Mayor Crystal Meloche underscored the project’s significance: “These banners are more than images—they are symbols of courage, sacrifice, and service. They remind us of the men and women who answered the call, whether in the World Wars, Korea, Afghanistan, or peacekeeping missions. Each banner tells a story…a story of someone’s son or daughter, neighbor or friend, who put service above self.”
For residents, spotting the names and faces of loved ones along daily routes has become a source of pride and reflection. The banners make history personal, bringing home the reality that freedom is preserved by ordinary people from the local community.
Bob Hart, who spearheaded the initiative and liaised with the town, explained the project’s roots: “Ten years ago, I saw similar banners in other towns across Ontario. I thought it would be wonderful to create a Veteran’s Way here, running from the branch along Hwy. #3 to Howard.”
Logistics posed challenges. The branch sits in Oldcastle/Tecumseh, across from LaSalle, with Howard Ave. under Essex County’s jurisdiction. Utility poles on either side are managed by different companies, and harsh winds made banner placement difficult. Ultimately, Hart approached the Town of LaSalle to explore alternatives. Partnering with the town, the group found a solution: the banners now hang along Malden Road, in front of Town Hall, where they’ll remain until Remembrance Day.
“By displaying these banners, we ensure that these stories live on, not just in history books but in the very streets and places we gather,” said Mayor Meloche. “When you see a veteran’s face staring back at you, it’s a powerful reminder that our freedoms were defended by real people from our own neighborhoods.”
Community response has been overwhelmingly positive, with residents expressing gratitude for the chance to honor their loved ones. Among the honorees are veterans Bob Pepper and Dan Leonard, both Canadian Navy veterans. Pepper served from 1956 to 1962 as a specialist in guns and torpedoes; Leonard served as a seaman and medic. “This is amazing,” Leonard shared. “I never thought I’d see something like this. My family is very proud.”
Beyond commemoration, the banners serve as an educational tool, sparking conversations about local history and military service.
Mayor Meloche summed it up: “This project is not only about one day in November, but about the respect we carry every day. As you pass these banners, look at the faces, read the names, and reflect on their sacrifices. In doing so, we ensure their stories live on and their service is never forgotten.”
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