'A Tribute To Them:' Veterans Honored At Broken Arrow's Rose District

In recognition of Memorial Day, Broken Arrow is honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice in a unique way.

Nearly every light pole in the city's Rose District has a banner with the names and faces of area veterans that served and have passed away.

The project is a fundraiser for the Military History Center in Broken Arrow. Each banner costs $200.

Kenneth Collins is on the museum's Board of Directors and is a veteran himself. He said three years ago Mayor Debra Wimpee noticed a similar tribute in Emporia, Kansas and brought it to Broken Arrow.

Collins' father was a World War II veteran and is one of those honored this Memorial Day with a banner. He said it is important that the sacrifice veterans make is never forgotten.

"Many of the guys did not make it home and sometimes us that did have a little bit of guilt feelings about that, but it is just a deal to recognize these guys and gals and what they have done, and it is just a tribute to them," Collins added.

Broken Arrow resident Don Crain said seeing the banners is inspiring and reminds him of his brother, who served in the Navy during the Cuban Missile Crisis. "He has passed away now so I think of him," he continued saying, "I think of the people who charged beaches. I mean, we cannot possibly understand what that is like. You have to go through that, so I do not think we can give them enough respect."

More banners will go up on Veterans Day for living veterans.