Officials Name Putnam a Purple Heart County

"The Purple Heart is the award wanted by none, respected by all."

That's what County Historian Denis Castelli, a recipient himself, said before two proclamations recognizing Putnam as a Purple Heart County were read Wednesday evening at the historic courthouse on Gleneida Avenue in Carmel. One was from County Executive MaryEllen Odell, and the other the county legislature.

The award is a combat decoration given to members of the US armed forces who are "wounded by an instrument of war in the hands of the enemy," according to the Military Order of the Purple Heart. For those who are killed in action, or die of wounds received in action, it is given to the next of kin.

"Some have asked why Putnam County should proclaim itself the first Purple Heart County in the state," Castelli said. "First of all, because we have the provision and confirmation from the state and national commanders of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, the nation's largest and oldest Purple Heart organization, and the only one authorized by Congress."

Castelli also mentioned the county's tribute—a statue at the Veterans Park in Kent—to Gold Star Mothers, an organization of mothers whose sons or daughters served and died, and local folks' support for service members. 

"Our local veterans are incredibly proud of Putnam County's government and its citizens because the government and our citizens are so proud of our veterans. We show it all the time," he said. He noted the numerous veterans organizations around the area and all the events at which these groups are honored and celebrated: parades on Memorial Day and the Fourth of July, Veterans Day, 9/11 gatherings. "And we have the finest veterans park I've seen anywhere outside of Washington, DC."

Odell (who is featured in an attached video) said she was very proud to be a part of Wednesday's event.

"The greatness I have found," she said, "is in those veterans who speak silently about their service and their sacrifice. I find that to be the most brave thing I have witnessed."