Local veterans honored at a Livingston ceremony Friday as Cookeville, Livingston, Overton County, and Putnam County officially became Purple Heart cities and counties.
Livingston Mayor Lori Burnett said that the city has working on the Purple Heart Designation since she found out it was a possibility. It then became a regional effort. Burnett took a moment at the ceremony to thank and recognize the veterans.
“We appreciate our freedom because of what you guys did,” Burnett said. “So I don’t ever want us to forget that, and that’s the main reason also for this service today, is just recognition for you guys that sacrificed so much for us.”
Purple Heart City signs will be installed at the five entrances to Livingston’s city limits. Soon, similar signage will be displayed on the county lines. The proclamations for all four municipalities were combined, as Burnett was excited for the region to celebrate.
Overton County Executive Steven Barlow said he was approached by the city shortly after the Purple Heart city work was done. Barlow said he is appreciative of the invitation near the end of the process, and he is happy to be a part of the recognition.
Barlow said Overton County celebrates veterans whenever possible. He said part of Friday’s proclamation makes August Purple Heart Month.
State Senator Ken Yager said he came to pay tribute to the Purple Heart recipients and their families. Yager said Purple Heart recipients represent bravery, resilience, and selfless duty to the country.
“Each medal does not represent just a wound, but a personal story of courage,” Yager said. “Every Purple Heart recipient wears more than just a medal. They wear the gratitude of this nation. And as a state, we’re dedicated to honoring your service through our unwavering support and respect.”
Yager said veterans are an inspiration to uphold the values of sacrifice, valor and unity. He said he will never forget the sacrifices made.
Matthew Sims, a three time Purple Heart and member of the Purple Heart Committee made the trip to Livingston from Oklahoma to speak at the ceremony. Sims said he has never seen so many entities become Purple Heart Affiliates.
“We pause to recognize not only the visible medals worn proudly on your chest, but the invisible scars and stories that bind us as a community,” Sims said. “One that transcends branches, military service, roles, and ranks. As we come together, we remember those bestowed the Purple Heart are not defined solely by their valor in combat. You are fathers, mothers, sisters and brothers. Pillars of strength in families and in your community.”
Sims said veterans show how adversity can be turned into purpose and how pain can be turned into compassion. He said the devotion veterans show inspire everyone around them.
American Legion Post #4 in Livingston, Post #99 in Sparta, and Post #135 in Cookeville are the first three posts in Tennessee to be inducted as American Legion Purple Heart Posts. Werner said this helps the posts become eligible for grant opportunities and other benefits. He said the VFW Post in Livingston is just the second Purple Heart affiliate in the state.
The Purple Heart is America’s oldest military decoration, and it is awarded to veterans wounded or killed in combat. Veterans, community members, the Coalition Honor Guard, and the Livingston Academy Band were all present at Friday’s ceremony.
