The Purple Heart (PH) is a United States military decoration awarded in the name of the president to those wounded or killed while serving on or after 5 April 1917, with the U.S. military. With its forerunner, the Badge of Military Merit, which took the form of a heart made of purple cloth, the Purple Heart is the oldest military award still given to U.S. military members. The original Purple Heart, designated as the Badge of Military Merit, was established by George Washington – then the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army – by order from his Newburgh, New York, headquarters on 7 August 1782.

Hospital CEO Vickie Demers said, “To our veterans: your courage, your sacrifice, and your service are the reason we are able to stand here today. Because of you, we have freedom. Because of you, we have community. Because of you, we have the opportunity to care for others.”

Andalusia, has been a Purple Heart City since 2016. It is one of 15 such communities in Alabama.

City administrator John Thompson, who was part of Thursday’s ceremony at Andalusia Health, expressed his thanks to the veterans present at the ceremony, and said it is fitting that the hospital have this designation, as the community prides itself on being the most patriotic place in the nation.

Councilman Terry Powell, who also is the chaplain of the Covington Veterans Foundation, also participated in the program, recognizing each veteran present.