Sunday, August 7th is Purple Heart Recognition Day nationwide.
In South Dakota officials are holding a rededication ceremony for the state’s Purple Heart memorial in Pierre.
The Purple Heart is awarded to veterans who were either wounded or killed in combat.
Mark Williamson is with the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs. He says this year’s statewide celebration is unique in that officials are rededicating the Purple Heart memorial at the state Capitol at 1pm on Sunday the 7th. He says the state’s Veterans Affairs office worked to move that statue to a more central location.
“Back in the early 2000’s, a monument was erected in Pierre honoring Purple Heart recipients, and it was located by the Soldiers and Sailors building, which is off the beaten path somewhat," says Williamson. "So we got together and convinced the building and grounds committee that it should be moved to a location closer to the other memorials on Capitol Lake.”
Williamson says that the day of observance is as important as Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day to pay respect to those making the ultimate sacrifice for the country.