Habersham County officially became a Purple Heart County during a special ceremony on July 21, honoring veterans who were wounded or killed in combat. A crowd of veterans, family members, and local officials—many dressed in purple—filled the commission meeting room for the recognition.
Commissioner Kelly Woodall presented a commemorative plaque to Barry Church, commander of Grant Reeves VFW Post 7720 in Cornelia. The plaque signifies the county’s commitment to supporting and honoring Purple Heart recipients and their families.
Nationwide network
By becoming a Purple Heart County, Habersham joins a nationwide network of communities dedicated to honoring combat-wounded veterans. The designation also establishes August 7 as Purple Heart Day—an annual reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have borne the scars of war.
“For so many years, our wounded veterans have not received the credit they deserve,” said Barry Church, VFW Post 7720 Commander. “A Purple Heart shows that these folks have given their actual life’s blood to defend their country. We in the county wanted to honor them and bring people’s attention to Purple Heart Day. We have quite a few Purple Heart recipients in Habersham County, so it’s a privilege for me to be part of this.”
Jim Morgan, commander of American Legion Post 84, also praised the designation.
“It’s an incredible honor for those who have been awarded a Purple Heart—not only for them but for all veterans,” he said. “We are very grateful to the county for doing this.”
Oldest military decoration
Created by George Washington in 1782 and revived in 1932, the Purple Heart is the nation’s oldest military decoration. It is awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who are wounded or killed in action against an enemy of the United States.
Applause broke out as officials read the proclamation naming Habersham a Purple Heart County.
It reads, in part: “Habersham County seeks to recognize and honor all local veterans who have received the Purple Heart and to pledge support and appreciation for their bravery and service to our nation.”
The plaque, which features the county seal, will serve as a permanent tribute to the community’s commitment to its veterans.
Purple Heart Day August 7
To celebrate the new designation, Habersham County and VFW Post 7720 will host a Purple Heart Day ceremony and community reception on Thursday, August 7. The event begins at 2 p.m. at the Fairfield Inn & Suites, 160 Market Corners Drive in Cornelia.
The public is invited to attend.
If you or someone you know with ties to Habersham has received a Purple Heart, contact County Clerk Brandy Carnes at bcarnes@habershamga.com or call 706-839-0215 so they may be recognized.
