On August 6, Veterans of the Ozarks hosted a Purple Heart Remembrance Ceremony at the American Legion Hall in Kimberling City.
Following presentation of the colors by Veterans of the Ozarks and the Pledge of Allegiance, Lt. David “Mac” McAllister welcomed those gathered for the remembrance event, acknowledging several area community leaders along with family members and friends who set aside the time to honor a loved one. Special mention was given of Kimberling City/Stone County area recipients including Dan Jacobs, Tom Kilgore, Bill Kidd, John Porter and Charles “Chuck” Schantag Jr., whose widow, Mary, is a strong advocate for military veterans and their families through the work of POW Network.
McAllister gave a brief historical presentation about the Purple Heart, the oldest military award in the U.S. that is still given today. It was initiated as the Badge of Military Merit on August 7, 1782, by commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, George Washington, and the medal itself has continued to bear his image.
After the War for Independence, no medals were awarded until 1932, when Purple Heart medals were awarded to those wounded or killed as a result of enemy action while serving in the Armed Forces on or after April 5, 1917, when the U.S. officially joined World War I. It was redesigned by World War II General Douglas MacArthur, who was also a recipient from that conflict. Over 1.5 million medals were authorized for the anticipated World War II invasion of Japan, reflecting the tremendous number of lives saved by the decision to use the atomic bomb and bring the war to an end. World War II Purple Heart awards totaled 1,076,245; Vietnam has the next highest total with 351,794. Some soldiers collected so many as to become legendary, including USMC Staff Sergeant Albert L. Ireland, who was awarded nine for his service in World War II and Korea. Those serving in World War II/Korea, Korea/Vietnam, and Vietnam have garnered the highest totals.
“We must remember that the wounds for which these medals are given were received on behalf of each of us,” stated McAllister as he described the lingering physical disabilities and mental anguish of war wounds. “All of these sacrifices should never be forgotten.”
The ceremony concluded with a rifle salute and Taps.
Veterans of the Ozarks is dedicated to helping other veterans in need as well as providing Honor Guard/Color Guard services for military funerals across the Ozarks and for special community events. Learn more, including how to get involved, by visiting the Veterans of the Ozarks Facebook page.
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