DOWNEY – The city is finalizing plans to honor more than a dozen active-duty military service members from Downey with street banners bearing their names.

The banners, which will be strung along Firestone Boulevard between Brookshire Avenue and Paramount Boulevard, will list the service member’s name and branch of service.

The program’s intent, city officials said, is to “support, recognize, and express appreciation to individuals and their families.”

Scott Pomrehn, an assistant deputy city manager, told the City Council on Tuesday that he received 16 applications seeking participation in the program. Of the 16 applications, 13 were approved.

To qualify for the program, honorees must be a Downey resident, or a relative of a Downey resident, and a veteran of “recent wars.” Former residents who lived in Downey before they turned 21 also qualify.

Councilman Roger Brossmer, who initiated work on the program, said a separate memorial is being planned to honor fallen soldiers.

The Council earmarked $4,500 for the banners’ initial design and fabrication, but asked for community donations to cover maintenance costs. A total of $1,300 in donations has been received, Pomrehn said, including $1,000 from Downey-based Elite Concrete Restoration.

To donate to the program, call (562) 904-1895.

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Published: August 14, 2009 - Volume 8 - Issue 17