Daily Freeman: Event in Newburgh Honors Purple Heart Recipients
NEWBURGH, N.Y. — Purple Heart recipients from across the U.S. were honored Thursday evening at the Newburgh Armory Unity Center Thursday.
Russ Vernon, executive director of the National Purple Heart Honor Mission, said it was fitting to hold the event in Newburgh, where Gen. George Washington awarded the first Badge of Military Merit, the predecessor to the Purple Heart.
“I take great pride in America and the American spirit, and feel it’s important for each of us to take a few moments of reflection from time to time to understand how fortunate we are to live in the United States of America,” Vernon said. “This evening, we are privileged to have Purple Heart recipients from across our nation.”