THE REQUEST FOR MAYORS TO ASSUME THE PURPLE HEART DESIGNATION IN U.S. CITIES, CAPITAL CITIES, AND U.S. TERRITORIES

WHEREAS, the Purple Heart is a combat decoration awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces, who die or become wounded by an instrument of war in the hands of the enemy; the Purple Heart is also awarded posthumously to the next of kin in the name of those who are killed in action; and

WHEREAS, the Purple Heart was initially created as the Badge of Military Merit by General George Washington in 1782; the Purple Heart is the first American service award or decoration made available to the common soldier, and is the oldest military decoration in present use; and

WHEREAS, the organization now known as the "Military Order of the Purple Heart" was formed in 1932; for the protection and mutual interest of all who have received the decoration composed exclusively of Purple Heart recipients. The Military Order of the Purple Heart is the only veterans service organization comprised strictly of “combat” veterans; and

WHEREAS, the mission of the Military Order of the Purple Heart is to foster an environment of goodwill among the combat-wounded veteran members and their families, promote patriotism, support legislative initiatives, and most importantly make sure that Americans never forget to recognize the price that servicemen and women have paid for our nation’s freedom; and

WHEREAS, all members of The United States Conference of Mayors and the Conference’s Veterans’ Taskforce intend to place special attention towards recognizing Purple Heart recipients throughout this nation, and advocate a unified stance by labeling U.S. Cities, Capital Cities, and U.S. Territories with the “Purple Heart” designation; and

WHEREAS, The United States Conference of Mayors appreciates the sacrifices that our Purple Heart recipients made in defending our freedom, and believe it is important that we acknowledge them for their courage and show them the honor and support that they have earned; and

WHEREAS, Mayor John R. Marks, III, Trustee Member of The United States Conference of Mayors, and Mayor of the City of Tallahassee presented a proclamation on September 12, 2012 recognizing the City of Tallahassee as a “Purple Heart Capital City”; and

WHEREAS, there is no cost requirement for this designation, the only thing required is a constructed resolution or proclamation that will recognize your city, capital city, or U.S. Territory as a “Purple Heart” community, and cities are encouraged to invest in signage that may further promote strong dedication to Purple Heart Veterans, at their own discretion,

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that The United States Conference of Mayors encourages all U.S. Cities, U.S. Capital Cities and Territories to assume the “Purple Heart” designation and ask that all citizens show their appreciation for the sacrifices that our Purple Heart recipients have made.