UPDATE (September 24, 2026):
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – Fort Wayne’s recognition as a Purple Heart City is now displayed on entryway signs throughout our community.
The effort to honor Fort Wayne as a Purple Heart City was led by Joe Wasson with the Allen County Veteran Service Office and Fort Wayne Mayor Sharon Tucker.
Purple Heart signs along Illinois Road
First established by George Washington in 1782, the Purple Heart is the oldest military decoration still awarded today. It represents courage, sacrifice, and devotion to our nation. We’re proud to honor the service and sacrifice of the men and women who have earned it.
Mayor Tucker attended the August 4th City Council meeting to read a proclamation declaring August 4, 2026, as Purple Heart City Day in the City of Fort Wayne.
The Military Order of the Purple Heart works to support combat‑wounded veterans and their families, promote patriotism, and ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten. Wasson led the effort to coordinate with the national organization to have Fort Wayne added as a partner city.
ORIGINAL STORY:
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – On Tuesday, Mayor Sharon Tucker and City Council announced that Fort Wayne is now recognized as a Purple Heart City.
The mayor read a proclamation declaring August 4, 2026, as Purple Heart City Day in the City of Fort Wayne. City Council read a letter of support for the designation. Local representatives in attendance included the Purple Heart Chapter, American Legion Honor Guard, and Legion Riders.
The following was released:
The City was approached by Joe Wasson, veteran service officer for Allen County, to pursue having Fort Wayne become a Purple Heart City. The Military Order of the Purple Heart works to support combat‑wounded veterans and their families, promote patriotism, and ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten. Wasson led the effort to coordinate with the national organization to have Fort Wayne added as a partner city.
The Purple Heart, first established by George Washington in 1782, is the oldest military decoration still awarded today and represents tremendous courage, sacrifice, and devotion to the United States.
National Purple Heart Day will be observed on Friday, August 7.
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