May 16, 2025
Tammy Sawyer

PICKERINGTON – The City of Pickerington is joining the Purple Heart Trail.

The recognition ceremony will take place Tuesday, May 20 at 7:30 p.m. at Pickerington City Hall, located at 100 Lockville Road.

Mayor Lee Gray will read a proclamation, unveil signage and recognize Pickerington veterans who have received the Purple Heart award, including one resident who was injured twice and received two Purple Heart decorations.

“This proclamation precedes Memorial Day, which is a fitting time to remember not only those who gave their lives in service and the families left behind, but also Purple Heart veterans and their families, whose lives were forever changed by injuries received in combat,” said Mayor Gray.

The Purple Heart is the oldest military decoration in present use and is awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who are wounded by an instrument of war in the hands of the enemy and posthumously to the next of kin in the name of those who are killed in action or die of wounds received in action. The purpose of the Purple Heart Trail is to create a symbolic and honorary system of roads, highways, bridges, and other monuments that give tribute to the men and women who have been awarded the Purple Heart medal.