Staff Report
DRIPPING SPRINGS — Dripping Springs recognized and honored Purple Heart recipients through a series of actions this year.
At the Aug. 5 city council meeting, council proclaimed Aug. 7 as Purple Heart Day in Dripping Springs, paying tribute to the men and women wounded or killed in combat while serving in the United States military.
In conjunction with this proclamation, Dripping Springs is also being officially recognized as a Purple Heart City — a national designation that reflects the city’s respect, gratitude and ongoing commitment to honoring veterans who have received the Purple Heart Medal, according to a news release.
“To be designated as a Purple Heart City is one of the most meaningful recognitions we can receive,” said Mayor Bill Foulds. “It is a public declaration that Dripping Springs will always stand in honor of those who have given so much for our country. We want to thank the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Chapter 1919, for their help on the proclamation and designation.”
As part of the city’s ongoing commitment, Dripping Springs is launching a Purple Heart Banner Campaign to honor local recipients. Residents or businesses can honor a special loved one who is or was a recipient of the Purple Heart with a Mercer Street Banner. For a $100 donation, they can sponsor a Purple Heart Veteran Banner to be proudly displayed on Mercer Street from Oct. 27 through Nov. 14, including Veterans Day on Nov. 11.
According to a news release, each banner will feature the Purple Heart recipient’s name and photo, if available and suitable for print.
The city will display 10-12 banners on downtown lightpoles, creating a powerful visual tribute to local heroes and a reminder of their service and sacrifice. A walking tour of the banners will be offered once installed. Following the Mercer Street display, the banners will be exhibited on a rotating basis at Patriot’s Hall, continuing the tribute throughout the year.
Space for the Mercer Street banners is limited and is on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants interested in the program need to complete the reservation form and return it by Aug. 29.
The form and more information can be found on the city’s website, www.cityofdrippingsprings.com/purpleheart.
