Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that New York State landmarks will be illuminated purple on Sunday, August 7, 2022 to commemorate Purple Heart Day.
"Today, the Purple Heart represents the immense cost and sacrifices our service members made through their military service to our State and Nation," Governor Hochul said. "New York State is eternally indebted to all who served and received the Purple Heart. Today and all days we honor and recognize their service."
On August 7, 1782, at the Headquarters in Newburgh, New York, General George Washington ordered the creation of the Badge of Military Merit, the predecessor of the modern Purple Heart, the first military decoration of what was to become the United States of America. The modern Purple Heart was later recognized on April 5, 1917.
New York State Division of Veterans' Services Director Viviana DeCohen said, "We remember these service members who served with distinction and their sacrifices to protect the freedoms and way of life we as Americans and New Yorkers are privileged to have because of their service. It is both our privilege to commemorate their military service and our responsibility to acknowledge the physical and mental sacrifices resulting from it."
The National Purple Heart Hall of Honor Director Anita Pidala said, "Today, August 7th, 2022, is the 240th Anniversary of the creation of the Badge of Military Merit, the inspiration for the modern Purple Heart medal. Please join us in observing Purple Heart Appreciation Day by remembering and giving thanks to all Purple Heart recipients to ensure that those who sacrificed for our freedom are never forgotten."
The landmarks to be lit in recognition of Purple Heart Day include:
- One World Trade Center
- Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
- Kosciuszko Bridge
- The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
- State Education Building
- Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
- State Fairgrounds - Main Gate & Expo Center
- Niagara Falls
- The "Franklin D. Roosevelt" Mid-Hudson Bridge
- Grand Central Terminal - Pershing Square Viaduct
- Albany International Airport Gateway
- The Lake Placid Olympic Jumping Complex
- MTA LIRR - East End Gateway at Penn Station
- Empire State Plaza