As about 2,000 soldiers from CFB Petawawa gear up for their upcoming deployment to Afghanistan, a Petawawa businessman has created a banner of hometown support that soldiers can take with them.
"This is a non-political banner. You don't have to agree with the missions, but if you support the troops in what they are doing, support the people themselves, then come out and show your support," said Mansur Dawe of M&J Enterprises.
In August, 2,500 soldiers will deploy to Afghanistan. Task force 3 08 will draw heavily on soldiers stationed at CFB Petawawa. The hope is this banner will go with them
"When you're busy out there and you're dusty and tired. And when I say tired I mean really tired - like 48 hours no sleep or more tired - hungry and you may not even be sure why we're here or what you are doing, it's nice to know someone does appreciate what you are doing," said Maj. Scott Usborne, CFB Petawawa Department Commander.
The banner will travel around Renfrew County for the next two weeks and will be given to the troops at the end of August.
With a report from CTV Ottawa's Kate Eggins
Upcoming locations where people can sign the banner:
August 4
Pembroke - Pembroke Legion 1-5 p.m.
Aug 5
Killaloe - 1 John Street township office 12-7 p.m.
Aug 6
Barry's Bay - P.J. Yakabuski Community Centre 10-4 p.m.
Aug 8
Laurentian Valley - Old Firehall 11-4 p.m.
Aug 9
Eganville - Hockey Rink 10-6 p.m.
Aug 11
Renfrew- Legion 12-7 p.m.
Aug 12
Laurentian Hills - Chalk River Legion 11-6 p.m.
Aug 13
Deep River - Town office 3-7 p.m.
Aug 14
Cobden - Town office -11-4 p.m.
