DOWNEY - With the Fourth of July national holiday only eight weeks away, the city of Downey had made plans to honor its local military personnel.The City Council agreed this week to launch a city-wide banner program "designed to support, recognize, and express appreciation to" active military service members. Councilman Roger Brossmer first proposed the idea. The city will cover the cost of the banners' installation and maintenance. Donations are expected to pay for the banners themselves. To qualify for a banner, service members must be on active overseas duty with a U.S. military branch. Honorees must also be a resident of Downey, or had been a resident before they turned 21. Relatives of Downey residents will also be considered. Details of the program are still being put together, including an application to determine eligibility.

********** Published: May 1, 2009 - Volume 8 - Issue 2