PHILIPSBURG — The Honor Our Veterans Mural at the Philipsburg American Legion Post 437 was officially dedicated on Nov. 8.
Officials from County National Bank and the Philipsburg American Legion Post 437 held a $3,500 check presentation ceremony in support of the mural.
Dustin Minarchick, CNB regional president, said: “CNB Bank is truly blessed to support our veterans with this mural in downtown Philipsburg, and we thank everyone who had a hand in putting this project together.”
American Legion Commander Johna McCormick conducted the check presentation.
The American Legion is located in the heart of Philipsburg’s town center at 315 E. Presqueisle St., at the intersection of Presqueisle and Centre streets.
Former state representative and Philipsburg native Lynn Herman spearheaded the project and has raised funds from corporate and private sponsors to pay for the mural.
Earlier this year, The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau, along with Centre County commissioners, awarded a $5,000 Tourism Grant to the American Legion to paint an Honor Our Veterans Mural on the façade of the Legion building in honor and memory of long-time past member Fred Herman, a United States Army veteran, and all veterans.
On Sept. 11, students from the Philipsburg-Osceola Area High School Art Class helped mural artist Pamela Etters paint the Honor Our Veterans mural.
“The mural painting is a timeline of all United States wars, beginning with the American Revolution to present day,” Etters said.
Etters and P-O art teacher Autumn Anderson guided the students in painting the section of New York City’s Twin Towers. “This is in commemoration and honor of all who lost their lives in the 9/11 terrorist attack,” Etters said.
“Building art enhances the beauty of local downtowns,” said HVAB President and CEO Fritz Smith. “Completion of the Honor Our Veterans mural will be a must see for local residents and out-of-area visitors who participate in the Philipsburg Historical Foundation walking tour or attend Philipsburg Heritage Days.”
This past year, HVAB and Visit Clearfield County opened a heritage/visitor center on Front Street in Philipsburg, where visitors are able to learn more about the rich heritage of both Happy Valley and Clearfield County, and receive information about things to see and do in the area.
