Niagara County celebrates Purple Heart Day with flag-raising at courthouse

Submitted by the Public Information Office 

Niagara County Clerk Joseph A. Jastrzemski, joined by members of the John Paul Bobo Chapter 264 – the local Purple Hear Chapter – and the county Veterans Service Agency, celebrated national Purple Heart Day with a flag raising at the Niagara County Courthouse in Lockport.

The Purple Heart is awarded to those wounded or killed as a result of enemy action while serving in the U.S. military.

In 2019, Niagara County became a Purple Heart County and maintains an official Book of Honor of all known residents who have received a Purple Heart. The book currently contains more than 400 names. In 2023, the county dedicated a Purple Heart monument and courtyard at the courthouse to honor these heroes.

“Niagara County is proud of our distinction as an official Purple Heart County as we are committed to the preserving the legacy of brave military personnel who were wounded fighting for our country,” Jastrzemski said.

He noted any resident who has received a Purple Heart or knows of someone who has, living or deceased, should contact his office so they can be included in the book.

More information on the Book of Honor, including a the form for inclusion as well as the names of all Purple Heart recipients, can be found at https://www.niagaracounty.gov/departments/a-f/county_clerk/index.php.