On Tuesday, July 10 at 10:30 a.m., the Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 115 and the National WWI Museum and Memorial will host the 2018 Purple Heart Truck Run.
Sponsored by the Military Order of the Purple Heart and Wounded Warriors Family Support, the Purple Heart Truck Run travels the country every year to raise awareness of the need for mobility for our nation’s disabled veterans.

The highlight of the day will be the designation of Jackson County, Missouri as the 41st Purple Heart County in the state. Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. will be the guest speaker. Second District At-Large Jackson County Legislator Crystal Williams will present a Resolution recognizing the heritage of the Military Order of the Purple Heart.

“It is an honor and a privilege to have this distinguished designation, none of which would be possible without the leadership of Legislator Crystal Williams and the support of the entire Legislative body,” said White. “Jackson County has committed itself to recognizing and supporting our military warriors in many ways throughout its history. Now, our community and Country will know that we love our veterans, we take care of them and we are grateful for their service and sacrifice.”

“It’s imperative we honor the men and women who pay ultimate sacrifices in service to our country and now, Jackson County is proudly a Purple Heart County,” said Williams. “Thank you to my colleagues, who co-sponsored the measure, and Executive Frank White, who asked me to introduce the resolution. It was a pleasure to do so.”

Driven exclusively by amputee veterans, the truck will be at the half-way point of its 7,800-mile odyssey across America to Spokane, Washington when it arrives in Kansas City. At the end of the run, the keys to the Ford F-150 truck, adapted to accommodate combat-wounded veterans, will be presented to an amputee veteran who is chosen from nationwide search of eligible and deserving nominees. This year’s recipient is U.S. Army Sergeant (Ret.) Justin Burdette from Palm Bay, Florida.

Following the presentation of Purple Heart signs to Jackson County, there will be a Purple Heart Truck demonstration and the drivers will be introduced. Participants will be invited to sign the Purple Heart Truck. Additionally, Purple Heart vehicles will be on hand from Wounded Warriors Family Support.

Share