T-R PHOTO BY ROBERT MAHARRY T-R Marketing Director Leanne Darr, third from left, presents a check for the banner program to MCBD Executive Director Danielle Lekin, on Thursday morning outside of the MCBD/Chamber office on West Main Street. Also pictured are Marshall County Veterans Affairs Director Kevin Huseboe, second from left, and Lisa Buhr, Emma Pfantz and Genesis Wanatee of Wanatee Accounting.

The Marshalltown Central Business District (MCBD) is proud to announce the launch of the 2026 Military Tribute Banner Program, a cherished community tradition honoring local veterans and active-duty service members. This year’s campaign, themed “Their Service, Our Gratitude,” coincides with America’s 250th anniversary, adding special significance as Marshalltown joins communities across the nation in celebrating the service and sacrifice that define our country. Each banner will feature the name, branch, and photograph of a local hero and will be displayed throughout downtown Marshalltown from Memorial Day through Veterans Day 2026. Applications are open now and will be accepted through March 15, 2026, or until all 108 banner locations are filled.

“This program is one of our most heartfelt traditions,” said Danielle Lekin, Executive Director of MCBD. “It’s a beautiful way for families and our community to say thank you — not just with words, but with a public display of gratitude.”

New this year, MCBD is introducing a Sponsor a Veteran Program, which allows community members to contribute toward a banner for a local veteran who does not have a family sponsor. “Even if you don’t have a veteran in your life, you can still take part in honoring someone who served,” Lekin said.

“We want to ensure every available banner space is filled and every hero is recognized.” Additionally, 10% of all proceeds from the campaign will be donated to Marshall County Veteran’s Affairs to directly support local veterans and their families. Applications can be submitted online or by mail to the MCBD office at 34 W. Main Street, Marshalltown, IA 50158. For full details or to participate, visit www.marshalltownmainstreet.org or follow MCBD on social media.

Thanks to a generous sponsorship from Wanatee Accounting, the Times-Republican will also be featuring the veterans on the banners in the newspaper during the winter months, and the T-R recently presented a $500 contribution to the MCBD’s banner program.