Claremore designated a Purple Heart City

Nov. 8—Claremore was proclaimed a Purple Heart City during the regular city council meeting Monday.

"By designating Claremore a Purple Heart City, we're committing to remembering the acts of resiliency of those who so selflessly defended our freedoms," Claremore City Manager John Feary said in a press release.

Coordinator of starting of Oklahoma Purple Heart Cities Mitch Reed presented a special recognition award on behalf of the Military Order of Purple Heart for the city's dedication and support of honoring America's combat wounded veterans.

The Purple Heart, the nation's oldest military award, was first established by General George Washington as the Badge of Military Merit in 1782 and specifically honors individuals who have been wounded or paid the ultimate sacrifice in combat. More than 900 Purple Heart locations are in the United States, honoring the 1.6 million Purple Heart recipients.

Claremore Public Schools Junior ROTC Commander Colonel John Rahe attended the meeting and said he was humbled and honored to be amongst Purple Heart recipients.

"When you go on the military, there's one award, one ribbon, one medal that you don't want," Rahe said. "And that's the Purple Heart. And there's a lot of Purple Heart recipients in our community that are here today because their sacrifice."

According to the proclamation, the city of Claremore is proud and honored to pledge support the Military Order of the Purple Heart and those who put their lives at risk to protect the freedoms enjoyed by all Americans.

"It is with much admiration, honor and respect that we recognize all veterans and Purple Heart Recipients," Feary said. "These soldiers answered the call when our nation needed them the most, and they paid the ultimate price to protect the freedoms that make this country great."

Those interested in learning more about National Purple Heart Communities, supporting the Purple Heart Patriot Project can visit .www.PurpleHeartMission.org