Honouring Our Hometown Heroes in Fenelon Falls
As we approach Remembrance Day on November 11th, downtown Fenelon Falls is once again adorned with beautiful banners honouring local servicemen and women. To learn more about this heartfelt community initiative, I sat down with Glenn Wood, Veterans’ Services Officer for Royal Canadian Legion Branch 238.
The banner program began in Fenelon Falls in 2022, led by Glenn as a local grassroots project. Its success has inspired neighbouring communities such as Bobcaygeon, Coboconk, Norland, and Burnt River.
The purpose behind the project is simple yet powerful: to bring forward the rich military history of our community and honour the veterans who served. Families of veterans reach out to Glenn to participate by submitting a photo, years of service, and military unit information, which are then featured on each personalized banner.
For Glenn, the project is deeply personal. His father was a veteran, and Glenn himself served as well. “I’ve had the opportunity to meet so many great people through service,” he shared. “It’s important to remember their sacrifice and the communities they came from.”
The response from families has been overwhelmingly positive. Rhonda Watson, for example, proudly sees her father’s banner and memorabilia displayed in the window of The Butterfly Boutique - formerly The Village Shop, the Watson’s family business that served Fenelon Falls for generations. Another family requested their loved one’s banner be placed near The Cow & Sow restaurant so they could enjoy a meal together and salute their grandfather. Glenn says stories like these are common and reflect the strong emotional ties families have to these tributes.
Community feedback has also been incredibly supportive. “Everyone I hear from loves the banners,” Glenn says. “They truly showcase our town and its history.”
A key goal of the project is education—especially for younger generations. The banners serve as a powerful visual reminder of the sacrifices made by local men and women. Glenn believes involving youth is essential to preserving history and understanding the cost of freedom: “We want them to know why they served, and to help ensure it never happens again.”
For Glenn, the most rewarding part of the project is the gratitude expressed by veterans and their families. Looking ahead, he hopes to expand the program with even more banners and would love to see a Veterans’ Memorial Crosswalk installed in Fenelon Falls.
During this season of remembrance, we extend sincere thanks to the members of the Fenelon Falls Royal Canadian Legion Branch 238 for their ongoing work in supporting veterans and strengthening our community.
For more information about the banner program, or if you are a veteran—or know someone who is—in need of support, please contact Glenn at (705) 879-8877. The Legion is located at 27 Veterans’ Way and welcomes everyone to attend their events and activities.
