PCPL participating in Our Heroes’ Tree project

In recognition of local veterans, the Putnam County Public Library is participating in the Our Heroes’ Tree program.

A tree will be put up in the library lobby on Monday, Dec. 5 and decorated with remembrance ornaments that honor the legacies of American service people.

On Tuesday, Dec. 6 from 6-7 p.m., PCPL will hold an ornament-making program. Participants can make remembrance ornaments with materials provided by the library, and are encouraged to bring photographs or memorabilia to personalize the ornaments. The Our Heroes’ Tree program is a national initiative that gives friends and families of U.S. service members a way to show their appreciation and to recognize and honor the service and sacrifice of U.S. service members and their families.

The program started in 2005 at West Point, and this is the fourth year of participation by the Putnam County Public Library.

When Stephanie Pickup and Marlene Lee founded Our Heroes’ Tree in 2005, they envisioned a “national forest” of trees that would stand any time of year to promote awareness and appreciation of the service and sacrifice of U.S. service members and their families. In the 10 years since, these trees have stood in more than 30 states and in military bases in 10 countries, each a salute to former members of all branches of service, including all branches of service, active duty, guard and reserve and all generations.