At the city’s most recent council meeting, Mayor David Still read a proclamation declaring Lawrenceville as a Purple Heart City by the Military Order of the Purple Heart. The mayor and council were joined by members of the Atlanta Purple Heart Chapter #465 to accept the recognition and appreciation for their service to our country. According to the city’s statement, “Lawrenceville appreciates the sacrifices our Purple Heart recipients made in defending our freedoms and believe it is important we acknowledge them for their courage and show them the honor and support they have earned.”

The proclamation goes on to state, “The Purple Heart is the oldest military decoration in present use and was initially created as the Badge of Military Merit by George Washington in 1782. The Purple Heart was the first American service award or decoration made available to the common soldier and is specifically awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who have been wounded or who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in combat with a declared enemy of the U.S.A.”

Further, “The mission of the Military Order of the Purple Heart is to foster an environment of goodwill among combat-wounded veteran members and their families, promote patriotism, support legislative initiatives, and ensure we never forget.”