The Swift Current Museum recently unveiled multiple veterans with ties to the southwest as this year's inductees to the Honour Our Veterans Banner Program.

Started in 2016, the museum's program has displayed a total of 69 veterans in Memorial Park in the fall leading up to Remembrance Day, paying tribute to local veterans and active service members in a tangible way.

Melissa Shaw, general manager of Cultural and Aquatic services for the City of Swift Current, introduced each veteran yesterday morning.

"Following today's ceremony, these 10 new banners will be hung in Memorial Park around the cenotaph," she said. "Constructed in 1927 to honour the Swift Currents, 209th Battalion Infantry from World War One. As the years have passed, the cenotaph has been dedicated to the veterans of subsequent wars and service to Canada."

Each double-sided banner includes their name, era served, branch of service, photograph, and sponsor. 

The goal of the ongoing effort is to engage the public and encourage residents to learn about the sacrifices and contributions made by these individuals.

al bridal speaking veterans banner program

Mayor Al Bridal attended the induction ceremony at the museum during the first snowfall of the season. 

"When we attend Remembrance Day ceremonies, it's quite something to look up at the lamp post in Memorial Park with these veterans' banners displayed--it really hits home," he said. "In an age where everything is digital and at the click of a button some people are too rushed and impatient to look back at history, it's so important to have tangible reminders. We need to continually and intentionally remember. It's not too much to ask; it's a fraction of the honour due to those who have unselfishly protected us and preserve our way of life."

This year's ten additions are George Akister, Dan Giessler, David George Gloeckler, Albert Douglas James, Cyril John James, Ralph Liewellyn James, Charles G. Low, David Gordon McGuaig, Albert James Piercey, and Alex Wilkie. 

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