NEWBURY — Veterans, town officials and others converged upon the Upper Green off High Road on Thursday to recognize Purple Heart Day. The ceremony featured an appearance by the Patriot Riders and Select Board member Bill DiMaio who, along with Bob Haynes, presented a ceremonial wreath. DiMaio is a Vietnam War veteran.
Purple Heart Day is observed annually on Aug. 7 as a way of giving Americans an opportunity to pay their respects to the millions of individuals who fought and continue to fight for their country’s freedom.
The Purple Heart is awarded to those injured in combat or in remembrance of those killed in action. The original Purple Heart medal, the Badge of Military Merit, was established by George Washington on Aug. 7, 1782. It is the nation’s oldest military medal.
The town of Newbury was officially recognized as a Purple Heart Community in March 2022.