The flag is set to be raised outside of Holyoke City Hall for Purple Heart Day.
Reminder Publishing photo by Trent Levakis
HOLYOKE — Holyoke leaders and community members gathered outside City Hall on Aug. 8 to raise a flag in honor of Purple Heart Day.
Purple Heart Day honors the men and women who have been wounded or killed in action while serving their country. The day also commemorates the creation of the Purple Heart, the oldest military medal in the United States, which was established by George Washington in 1782.
Leading the ceremony was new Director of the Holyoke Veterans Department, Jorge Santiago, who said he was honored to be able to be involved with the ceremony.
“As we celebrate the legacy of this prestigious honor let us also confirm our unwavering support, admiration for the extraordinary heroes of the American Armed Forces and their tireless work to save peace and prosperity both at home and abroad, and uphold the values that define our unique way of life,” Santiago said. “Our mission remains incredibly grateful to these great warriors for their service and sacrifice.”
The day also aims to raise awareness of the impact of war on veterans and their families, and to highlight the importance of providing them with the support and resources they need. There have been approximately 1.8 million Purple Hearts awarded since 1782.
“On this Purple Heart Day and every single day, we need to pause and just simply say thank you to our brave men and women who have fought for our nations freedom and bear the scars of war,” said Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia. “It’s most critical and very important to always take a moment and reflect and when you get an opportunity, simply say thank you.”
Ward 3 Councilor David Bartley made a few comments as well, showing his appreciation for Holyoke’s veterans and the sacrifices made. Bartley thanked local veterans for their role in the community and for working throughout communities to establish the Purple Heart trail that starts in Granby, through South Hadley, through Holyoke, into Westfield and now stretching into Southwick.
“This started because veterans really gave us the idea, so I want to say thank you,” said Bartley.
