Travis and Heather Davidson of Davidson Auto Deals have spearheaded the placement of nearly 50 banners along Huntington and Main streets in Syracuse to commemorate local residents who have served in the armed forces. Travis, who served in the Air National Guard, also has a banner, located near downtown. InkFreeNews photo by David Hazledine.

By David Hazledine
InkFreeNews

Drivers on Huntington and Main streets in Syracuse are getting a lesson in local history thanks to Travis and Heather Davidson of Davidson Auto Deals.

Working in conjunction with the Town of Syracuse and Syracuse-Wawasee Chamber of Commerce, the Davidsons have lined the street with banners commemorating local members of all branches of the United States military, past and present.

“We have such a strong veteran presence in Syracuse,” said Travis Davidson. “I wanted to bring some recognition to those who have served.”

Davidson, an Air National Guardsman, was particularly inspired by his grandfather, Pat Park, a Navy veteran with whom he is close; however, as he stated, “My family all served.”

The Davidsons started the project in March 2021, placing call-outs on Facebook for names of local service members. “We got an overwhelming response,” Travis exclaimed, “and it grew as time went on.”

They also contacted the chamber in an effort to ascertain the number of banners the town might accommodate and hired Maverick Promotions in North Webster to produce the sturdy housing and poles where the banners hang, displaying a photo along with the name, rank, branch of the military and when they served.

Heather collected the photos and information, which were sent to Peggy Lippert at Maverick, who produced the banners’ design and layout. “They look amazing,” she commented.

There are currently 47 banners lining both Huntington Street from downtown to Linwood Drive and Main Street as far as the community center; however, Davidson sees the potential for twice that number in the future. “I would love to hit 100,” he said. The couple has already received photos and information from roughly 10 more banners.

Anyone interested in honoring a serviceman or woman with a connection to Syracuse may contact the Davidsons at (260) 237-9042.