Durham, N.C. – This August, Durham County Veteran Services is proud to recognize the bravery and sacrifice of our community’s veterans during its 2nd annual Purple Heart Month Celebration. Throughout the month, the department invites veterans residing in Durham County who have been awarded the Purple Heart to participate in this special recognition.

From August 1 to August 31, Purple Heart recipients are invited to visit the Veteran Services office located at 201 N Roxboro Street, Monday through Friday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. to be recognized. Veterans are encouraged to bring their Purple Heart medal to have their photo taken and added to the department’s Honoring Wall, a tribute to our local heroes. Each veteran who participates will receive a commemorative gift and have the opportunity to connect with staff and learn about benefits they may be entitled to through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

“Purple Heart recipients are a special part of the veteran population,” said Jonathan Crooms, Durham County Veterans Service Officer. “Due to the wounds they received in combat, many suffer in silence. It is important that we honor these extraordinary individuals and never forget the sacrifices they made on behalf of our country.”

Currently, there are 10 known Purple Heart recipients residing in Durham County. Veteran Services is seeking to identify and honor more individuals who have received this prestigious honor. If you are or know of a Purple Heart recipient residing in Durham County, please contact Durham County Veteran Services by phone at 919-560-8387 or email veteranservices@dconc.gov.

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