More than 40 local veterans and active duty personnel have been honored through Shawano’s Hometown Heroes program, and organizers expecting to double that amount before the next application period comes to a close next month.
“Our goal for 2026 was to double our banners on Main Street and have all 2024 and 2025 banners return for the 2026 season,” said Sam Sperberg, president of Shawano’s Hometown Heroes. “Our first year in 2024, we had 19 banners, and in 2025 we had 41. This year so far, we have almost 40 new banners.”
Any honorably discharged veteran or active duty military member who lives or has lived in the 54166 ZIP code can be featured on a banner.
Stephen Kahlow, a current member of the U.S. Navy, is on one of the banners.
“The Shawano’s Hometown Heroes program is an incredible way to commemorate and honor veterans both past and present for their selfless service to our nation,” said his mother, Janet Kahlow. “Seeing your loved one on the banner and knowing the community is also observing and honoring them makes you feel even more pride. I am grateful and extremely appreciative of this organization.”
Each banner displays the military member’s name, branch of service, and a military photo or logo.
“We extend our sincere thanks to the city of Shawano for expanding our display area,” Sperberg said. “Banners are now featured along (South) Main Street from Elizabeth Street to County Road B, with additional placement opportunities along County Road B and Lincoln Street. This expansion allows us to honor even more active duty members and veterans throughout the heart of our community.”
Banners are displayed from Memorial Day to just before Veterans Day.
“We are incredibly grateful to Shawano Municipal Utilities for their continued support in installing the brackets, hanging the banners and assisting with removal,” Sperberg said. “They generously donate their time, equipment and expertise to make this program possible.”
Each year, applications begin to be accepted Jan. 1. This year, applications, which are available on the group’s website, are due March 15.
New banners are $250, returning banners are $50, and replacement banners are $150.
“Anyone may submit an application — family members, friends, businesses, organizations or even veterans themselves,” Sperberg said. “We also welcome self-applications. Our golden rule is that each honoree or their next of kin must approve the final banner before going to print.”
Anyone may sponsor a banner. Many families choose to split the cost among relatives or give it as a gift.
“We do recommend confirming who will be covering the sponsorship before submitting the application,” Sperberg said.
Applicants certify that the information provided is accurate at the time of submission. The committee reviews each application for completeness and clarity before production. They also partner with the Shawano County Veterans Service Office to help verify each individual.
For Sperberg, the banners are more than a community service project. Her late father, Greg Senzig, is featured on one of the banners.
“Being a part of this organization is so rewarding, but seeing the look on my 4-year-old’s face when he sees his grandpa’s banner is the best,” Sperberg said. “He lights up and always comments, ‘Good morning, Grandpa!’ It keeps his memory alive.”
Organizers are willing to present the Shawano’s Hometown Heroes program to area organizations to discuss the program.
“In addition, we have met with several surrounding communities to help them bring a similar program to their area, and we are always happy to share information, insights and resources with communities interested in starting their own Hometown Heroes initiative,” Sperberg said.
To view past banners, access applications and review an FAQ section, visit www.shawanoshometownheroes.com. Questions can be directed via email or Facebook Messenger.
kpasson@newmedia-wi.com
