With an invitation from Mayor Thomas, many veterans came to Monday nights regular City Council meeting for the reading of her proclamation that designates Weiser as a Purple Heart Community. The Purple Heart is specifically a combat decoration and it is our nation’s oldest military medal. It was first created by General George Washington in 1782 and was known as the Badge of Military Merit. The Purple Heart is awarded to members of the armed forces of the U.S 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 heritage it represents is sacred to those who understand the price paid to wear it. 

Mayor Thomas took the time to shake each veterans hand and thank them for their service. This is a way we recognize not only our purple heart veterans, but to honor all people who have shed blood for this country.

PROCLAMATION
 
WEISER, IDAHO – A PURPLE HEART CITY
 
WHEREAS, the City of Weiser, Idaho has always supported its military veteran population; and
 
WHEREAS, the Purple Heart is the oldest military decoration in present use and was initially created as the Badge of Military Merit by General George Washington in 1782; and
 
WHEREAS, the Purple Heart was the first American service award or decoration made available to the common soldier and is specifically awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces who have been wounded or paid the ultimate sacrifice in combat with a declared enemy on the United States of America; and
 
WHEREAS, the mission of the Military Order of the Purple Heart is to foster as an environment of goodwill among the combat-wounded veteran members and their families, promote patriotism, support legislative initiatives and most importantly, to make sure we never forget; and
 
WHEREAS, the City of Weiser and the surrounding area have a large veteran population including Purple Heart recipients and other highly decorated veterans; and
 
WHEREAS, Weiser appreciates the sacrifices all our veterans made in defending our freedoms and believe it is important that we acknowledge them for their courage and show them the honor and support they have earned.
 
NOW. THEREFORE, I Diana L. Thomas, Mayor of the City of Weiser, Idaho do hereby proclaim the City of Weiser as
 
A PURPLE HEART CITY.
Signed this 9th day of November 2015.
Diana L. Thomas,

Mayor , City of Weiser, Idaho