What is a Purple Heart City?

A city designated as a Purple Heart City communicates their commitment, acceptance and safety to military residents and visitors. It especially demonstrates gratitude to military service members who have been wounded or killed in combat. To earn this designation, the mayor and/or City Council must issue an official proclamation.

Dublin: A Purple Heart City

The City of Dublin was proclaimed a Purple Heart City on July 26, 2021, by Dublin City Council. Purple Heart City signage has been installed near City entrances and Aug. 7 is recognized as Purple Heart Day, in alignment with National Purple Heart Day.

Dublin honors local veterans on Purple Heart Day and throughout the year through initiatives and resources such as the Defenders Den at the Dublin Irish Festival, Dublin Link lightings, the Dublin Veterans Advisory Committee, a Veteran Appreciation Card and the Veterans Day ceremony.

The Purple Heart

The Purple Heart is awarded to members of the armed forces who are wounded or killed by an instrument of war in action. It is a combat decoration and is the oldest military honor. The honor was established on Aug. 7, 1782, by George Washington with the Badge of Military Merit, the predecessor to the Purple Heart Medal.

The Purple Heart Hits Close to Home in Dublin

Dublin resident Master Sergeant Sean Clifton, a Purple Heart recipient and retired Green Beret, was severely wounded in 2009 while conducting a raid on a Taliban compound. As a member of the Dublin Veterans Advisory Committee, Master Sgt. Clifton advocates for the recognition and support of Veterans. Through his and the committee’s efforts, Dublin City Council proclaimed Dublin a Purple Heart City.