Jefferson County Designated as Purple Heart County

Jefferson Co., Mo. (KFMO) - Jefferson County is now a Purple Heart County.

At the July 8, Jefferson County Council Meeting, a proclamation was read by County Executive Dennis Gannon proclaiming the designation. The proclamation was signed by Gannon and members of the County Council. In addition to the proclamation, road signs will be placed along roadways throughout Jefferson County denoting Jefferson County as A Purple Heart County.

The Purple Heart is the oldest military decoration in present use and was initially created as the Badge of Military Merit by General George Washington in 1782. It is the first American service award or decoration made available to the common soldier.