Purple Heart City

The Purple Heart is the United States military's oldest military decoration, dating back to 1782. It is awarded to members of the armed forces of the United States who have been wounded or killed while serving in the line of duty with the U.S. military after April 5, 1917.

Significance of the Purple Heart

The Purple Heart is a highly prestigious decoration that is awarded to those who have demonstrated courage, sacrifice, and loyalty to the nation. It is a symbol of honor and respect for those who have served their country in the armed forces.

Criteria for Purple Heart Award

The Purple Heart is awarded in the name of the President of the United States to any member of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving under competent authority in any capacity with one of the U.S. Armed Services after April 5, 1917, has been wounded or killed. Wounds must be the result of gunshot, fragmentation from an explosive device, or other injuries sustained while engaging enemy forces.

The Purple Heart is the only military decoration that can be awarded posthumously to next of kin of those who are killed in action or die of wounds received in action.

Design and Symbolism

The Purple Heart is a pentagon-shaped medal with a white border and a purple center. In the center of the medal is a shield with an inscription of "For Military Merit." Above the shield is a figure of George Washington.

The purple color of the medal represents the blood shed by those who have been wounded in battle. The shield represents the defense of the nation, and the inscription of "For Military Merit" honors the service and sacrifice of those who have received the award.

What communities and local government can do to honor Purple Heart recipients

Communities and local government can honor Purple Heart recipients in a variety of ways, big and small. Here are a few ideas (The City of Atlantic Beach actions are highlighted):

• Establish a Purple Heart Community designation. This designation recognizes the community's commitment to honoring and supporting Purple Heart recipients. To earn this designation, a municipality must have a living or deceased Purple Heart recipient, issue an official proclamation, and recognize National Purple Heart Day.
• Establish a Military Appreciation landing page on the City website.
• Offer special services to Purple Heart recipients, including designated parking (the City of Atlantic Beach has a designated Veteran parking space at City Hall), dog park memberships and utility bill discounts (the City of Atlantic Beach is reviewing the potential of offering these services).
• Educate the community about the Purple Heart and its significance. This can be done through newsletters and online resources.
• Name a street after a Purple Heart recipient. 
• Partner with local veterans' organizations. Cities can work with veterans' organizations to host events, provide support services, and raise awareness of the needs of Purple Heart recipients.
• Simply say thank you. A simple "thank you" can go a long way in showing Purple Heart recipients that their service is appreciated.

'A Purple Heart' Christmas

In 2022, 12-year-old Atlantic Beach resident Taylor Saloreno. published "A Purple Heart Christmas," a book based on a little girl's wish to spend Christmas with her great-grandfather. Her late great-grandfather, Pat Carmody, was a World War II Purple Heart recipient.

Florida Purple Heart Recipient Benefits

1. Education: Free College Tuition

• The Benefit: 100% undergraduate tuition waiver at state universities (like UNF) and state colleges (like FSCJ).

• Coverage: Up to 110% of the credit hours required for your degree.

• Eligibility: Must be a Florida resident (current or at the time of injury).

• Action: Submit your DD-214 to the school’s Veterans Service Center.

2. Property Tax Savings

• Standard Disability Exemption: $5,000 off your home’s assessed value for any service-connected disability (10%+).

• Combat-Related Discount: A percentage discount for recipients aged 65+ based on their disability rating.

• Total Exemption: If rated 100% P&T, you pay zero property taxes on your homestead.

• Action: File with the Duval County Property Appraiser (231 E. Forsyth St.) by March 1st.

3. Employment & Licensing

• Veterans’ Preference: Receive a 10-point bonus on civil service exams for government jobs.

• Business Tax Waiver: Exemption from many local business taxes and fees for honorably discharged veterans.

4. Recreation & Vehicles

• License Plates: "Purple Heart" medal plates are available through the Tax Collector.

• State Parks: Free Lifetime Military Entrance Pass (covers admission for up to 8 people).

• Outdoor Freedom: Access to the Operation Outdoor Freedom program for specialized hunting and fishing trips on state lands.

Duval County Quick Contacts

No matter what approach a community takes, the most important thing is to show Purple Heart recipients that their sacrifice is valued and appreciated. By honoring these brave men and women, we can help to ensure that their legacy lives on.