Officials Designate Forest Park As A Purple Heart City
FOREST PARK, Ga. — May 31, 2024 — This month, officials proudly announced that the City of Forest Park has been designated a "Purple Heart City," an honor that was conferred by the local chapter of the Military Order of the Purple Heart.
Created in 1782 as a Badge of Military Merit by President George Washington, the Purple Heart Medal is the oldest military decoration in present use and is awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who have been injured by an enemy weapon, died in action or died from their wounds while serving their country. Through various collaborative efforts, the Military Order of the Purple Heart works to foster an environment of goodwill and camaraderie among combat wounded veterans, promote patriotism, support necessary legislative initiatives and provide service to all veterans and their families.
"Forest Park has a long, proud history of supporting our active military serviceman, servicewoman, veterans and those who served our country," said Mayor Angelyne Butler, MPA. "From the countless contributions originating out of the former Fort Gillem Army base to those currently serving in active duty, it is imperative that we, as a collective community, pay tribute to the sacrifices made by Purple Heart recipients, as well as those who continue to display the highest level of courage, honor and dedication to our great nation."
To learn more about the Military Order of the Purple Heart, visit www.purpleheart.org.
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City Council Recognizes Public Works, E-911 Staff As First Responders
At their May 20 general meeting, members of the Forest Park City Council also officially recognized both the city's Public Works Department and E-911 Division as first responders. In local government, first responders are often some of the first individuals who are called upon to provide essential aide and assistance in the event of an emergency. The recognition comes as more municipalities across the nation are acknowledging those personnel groups who serve on the front lines in order to render needed aid to residents and businesses impacted by local emergencies.
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