Story by Cherith Fluker
Photos by Graham Hadley
In the heart of Moody, a touching tribute to military veterans has taken root.
The Veterans Banner Program, which began in 2023, is a community-driven initiative to honor those who have served in the armed forces. Spearheaded by city officials and embraced by residents, this program is more than just a display of banners; it’s a testament to the city’s deep respect and gratitude for its local military service members, past and present.
The idea for the Moody Veterans Banner Program was inspired by similar efforts in nearby cities like Jasper and Montevallo. City Councilman Ellis Key, after visiting these towns, was enthusiastic about bringing a similar tribute to Moody. Mayor Joe Lee and Mayor Pro Tem Linda Crowe had been advocating for a way to honor local veterans, and after three years of planning and discussions, the program finally launched.
In August of 2023, the city began selling banners to families who wanted to honor their loved ones who have served the country. By Veterans Day, the first nine banners were proudly displayed. The program’s popularity grew quickly, with additional banners added for Memorial Day and Patriots Day. In the first year of the program, the city displayed 14 banners.
Each banner tells a unique story. One banner honors a West Point graduate and decorated Vietnam War veteran, while another recognizes a Vietnam War veteran who received both a Bronze and Silver Star. Three of the banners displayed honor a father who fought in WWII and his two sons, one of whom fought in Vietnam.
Moody resident Jimmy Banks surprised his mother with a banner honoring his father and her father. Additionally, there is a banner dedicated to a WWII soldier who was killed in Luxembourg.
Program organizers are hopeful that the Veterans Banner program will continue to inspire future generations.
Moody’s Mayor Assistant Melissa Fraser says the community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive. Residents frequently inquire about the cost and eligibility criteria for the banners. Fraser emphasized that the banners are not limited to veterans. They can honor anyone currently serving or who has served in the past.
Longtime Moody resident Kathy Lunsford shared her excitement about the Moody Veterans Banner Program. She recently purchased banners for herself and her husband, William. Both Kathy and William are Air Force veterans who met during their service. Kathy was inspired to participate after seeing the banners displayed while leaving the library. Lunsford said, “As a veteran, I am proud of the time I served in the military. It is an honor to have served my country. I’m looking forward to my and my husband’s banners being displayed soon. I can’t wait to show our children and our family.”
The banner program has received an overwhelmingly positive response from honorees and the community. “One particularly memorable reaction came from a woman who surprised her husband with a banner. Responses like these show the pride families feel in recognizing their loved ones’ service,” shared Fraser.
Starting the program wasn’t without its challenges. Initially, finding appropriate locations to display the banners was a concern. Currently, the banners are displayed near the Civic Center at 200 Civic Center Drive in Moody. This location has been well-received by the public.
Additionally, maintaining the banners, which are subject to weather wear and tear, requires careful logistics. The city’s Public Works Department plays a crucial role in displaying the banners during patriotic holidays.
Gilreath Printing and Signs, LLC, a Pell City business, has been instrumental in creating high-quality banners. The Gilreaths have consistently produced banners that families and the community are proud of. “Even when families submit older photos that are worn and faded, Mr. and Mrs. Gilreath, along with their graphic designer, Dani Chistopherson, have made the banners look fantastic,” Fraser added.
The program is not designed to be a money-making venture. The $200 fee for each banner covers the costs of production and their picture being featured in an exhibit at the Moody Museum. This exhibit will have a dedicated room where the veterans’ legacies will be preserved for future generations.
As the program grows, there are plans to expand the banner displays to Moody Crossroads and eventually along Highway 411.
Fraser believes that other cities could benefit from starting similar programs. Her advice is straightforward: “It’s a deeply rewarding program that brings communities together and honors those who have served.” The cooperation and dedication of city partners and local businesses have been key to the program’s success.
For those interested in purchasing a banner, Fraser advises contacting her at least a month before one of the key patriotic holidays for the displays that are expected to continue to grow.
And rightly so, say city officials. The program stands as a beacon of gratitude and community spirit, honoring the brave men and women who have dedicated their lives to serving their country.
Banners can be purchased for $200 each, which guarantees three years of display. Additionally, the honoree’s picture will be featured at the City of Moody Museum and on the city’s website. l
Editor’s note: If you have any questions or if you would like to purchase a banner for a service member, contact Melissa Fraser at the City of Moody at (205) 640-0307 or mfraser@moodyalabama.gov.
