DeSoto County honors local heroes on Purple Heart Day

Aug. 7, 2025 – As the nation pauses to observe Purple Heart Day, DeSoto County proudly joins in recognizing the bravery and sacrifice of America’s wounded and fallen service members.

DeSoto County holds the special distinction of being a designated Purple Heart County, a title that reflects its commitment to honoring veterans who have shed blood in defense of the nation. A commemorative plaque inside the County Administration Building stands as a solemn tribute to local Purple Heart recipients — a constant reminder of the cost of freedom.

In 2017, the DeSoto County Board of Supervisors, in partnership with local municipalities, designated Church Road as the official Purple Heart Trail. This symbolic route serves to visually honor combat-wounded veterans and to remind all who travel it of the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces from within the community.

The Purple Heart County designation is part of a national initiative by the Military Order of the Purple Heart to recognize and honor counties and cities across the country that show unwavering support for veterans.

As Purple Heart Day is marked each Aug. 7, DeSoto County remains committed to remembering and honoring its heroes — not just today, but every day.