Purple Heart Ceremony Planned By City

The City of Arkansas City is pleased to announce an important event to honor the bravery and sacrifice of the nation’s heroes and mark a notable milestone in local history.

On Friday, July 12, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., the City of Arkansas City will host a Purple Heart ceremony at City Hall, 118 W. Central Ave. This event commemorates the historic moment when Mayor Jay Warren officially declared Arkansas City the first Purple Heart City in Cowley County during the January 16 City Commission meeting.

"This ceremony is of great importance as it recognizes the valor and sacrifice of military personnel, particularly those who have been wounded or have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the nation," Randy Frazer, City Manager, said. "The city invites the community and beyond to join in honoring local heroes and supporting the initiative to designate Arkansas City as the first Purple Heart City in Cowley County."

In addition to the ceremony, the City of Arkansas City crews will place signage at the city limits declaring Arkansas City a Purple Heart community.

"Our collective aim in becoming a Purple Heart community is to lead the way for other cities in Cowley County to follow suit, thereby making Cowley County the first in the state to achieve all Purple Heart City designations and further strengthening the bonds of the nation's Purple Heart Trail," Frazer said.

The Purple Heart Ceremony will include the presentation of the Purple Heart proclamation, performances by the Arkansas City Community Band, and a moment of reflection to honor the bravery and selflessness of our servicemen and women.

Light refreshments will be provided following the ceremony.