The city of Pine Bluff became a Purple Heart City during a ceremony at the Pine Bluff Convention Center Nov. 15 following the Veterans Day Parade downtown.
During the ceremony, Pine Bluff received the special distinction from retired Army Maj. Charles Adkins, Arkansas Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart. He officially designated Pine Bluff as a Purple Heart City.
“This recognition honors the city’s deep respect and gratitude for America’s combat-wounded veterans,” according to the newsletter from the Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce.
“Becoming a Purple Heart City signifies a community’s commitment to honoring and supporting the men and women who have been awarded the Purple Heart Medal — those who were wounded or killed while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. The designation also raises public awareness about the sacrifices made by our nation’s military heroes and demonstrates the city’s ongoing support for veterans and their families” according to the newsletter.
Adkins, the father of Pine Bluff Chamber Director Jennifer Kline, had presented the Purple Heart Plaque to Mayor Vivian Flowers on behalf of the Military Order of the Purple Heart.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
The ceremony also featured a keynote address by Brigadier General Olen “Chad” Bridges, Adjutant General of the Arkansas National Guard, who spoke about the enduring legacy of service and sacrifice represented by veterans across the state and nation.
The Chamber congratulates the city on a successful Veterans Day Parade and reception.
“The community came together to honor and celebrate the service and sacrifice of the nation’s veterans in a moving tribute,” according to the newsletter.