Veterans Want To Revive Cuyahoga County Purple Heart Chapter

Ron Mohr and Harry Crawford are on a quest to re-establish a Military Order of the Purple Heart chapter in Cuyahoga County.

The Purple Heart, one of the most respected military awards, is given to those who are killed or wounded in battle.

Mohr and Crawford, who live in Solon, are Vietnam veterans and Purple Heart recipients. Crawford said the county once had a Purple Heart chapter, known as Chapter 111, but it's been de-activated for some time.

Crawford contacted his councilwoman, Toni Richmond, who got him and Mohr in touch with Solon Mayor Susan Drucker, who has supported the effort.

On Tuesday, Drucker the first in Cuyahoga County. Mohr, Crawford and other veterans were on hand for a ceremony.

"It's exhilirating to be here with other Purple Heart Veterans," Mohr said. "I think this is a tribute not only to Purple Heart veterans, but all veterans."

Crawford said that they need to have at least 12 members to start a chapter, which shouldn't be a problem.

"Odds are that there are a significant number in Solon and Cuyahoga County," he said.

Both men said their goal is to help veterans navigate the U.S. Department of Veterans' Affairs' sometimes-tricky maze, and to share information about benefits and other topics important to veterans.

This is especially important with more veterans returning from wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, Crawford said.

"We just want to get the ball rolling so we can become more actively involved with veterans in Cuyahoga County," he said.

Are you a Purple Heart recipient living in Cuyahoga County? Contact Mohr or Crawford.

Mohr can be reached at 440-667-2078 or hskyd@me.com.

Crawford can be reached at 440-542-2449 or hcc1050@att.net