By Resolution passed at the 2022 National Convention, the Marine Corps League hereby supports Project Purple Heart. The Honoring Purple Heart Recipients Act of 2022 (H.R.5172 and S.4006) has been introduced to the U.S. Congress to direct the Department of Defense to include and maintain Purple Heart recipients in its database of certain awards of valor. The Marine Corps League’s Resolution is attached.

 

Members of the Marine Corps League are encouraged to contact their U.S. Congressmen and U.S. Senators in support of the Purple Heart Recipients Act of 2022 (H.R. 5172 and S.4006).

 

In coordination with the National Flag Foundation, on November 11th, 2022, the 240th anniversary of the establishment of the Purple Heart will be observed in cities across the United States. The Marine Corps League supports and encourages its Detachments to participate as available in the 240th anniversary observances. This support will include providing color guards in various cities.

 

The National Flag Foundation and the Military Order of the Purple Heart along with the Marine Corps League, have partnered for the national “Light To Unite” this November 11th.  The One World Trade Center in New York City has agreed to light his spectacular tower purple the evening of November 11th as part of the nationwide initiative to celebrate the 240th Anniversary of the Purple Heart Award.  We are asking that a Marine Corps League Color Guard perform at One World Trade Center. But also request a MCL Color Guard at cities across the country as cities get on board.

 

The plan is to have as many cities as possible across America light either purple or red-white-blue the evening of November 11th ( Veterans Day ) 2022.  Additionally, we will be publicizing this endeavor and will be asking all Americans to make a special effort to fly US Flags on November 11th.

 

The goal is to bring much needed attention to the Military Order of the Purple Heart ( the only Congressionally Chartered Purple Heart Organization in the United States ), and the many deserving Purple Heart Medal recipients who find themselves in need on multiple levels. 

 

The following cities have buildings that will be participating in the NFF light to unite purple heart light up:  Pittsburgh, PA; Kansas City, KS; Houston, TX; Philadelphia, PA; NYC, NY; Jacksonville, FL; Denver, CO; Tucson, AZ;  Simi Valley, CA; Portland, OR and Dubuque, Iowa. We are anticipating more cities to join.

 

Given that this will take place on 11 November 2022, the uniform will be dress blue trousers, white aviator style shirt (Long Sleeved preferred, short sleeve optional), red covers,  the red satin MCL jacket or local equivalent (for inclement weather - sold in Ship’s Store.) Must wear white gloves and white duty belt.  The key is to all members of the color guard to be in the same uniform.

 

Pittsburgh, Pa. will light up 1st in the country followed by the world trade building in NYC with the rest as twilight comes. 

 

I ask also that this information be posted on the MCL Facebook connections page in a way that it can be shared.

 

If your Detachment is interested in providing a Color Guard, the point of contact for the Marine Corps League is Andy Burch, DVC # 10, Dept. of Pa.  724 448-5728, andy.bklyn@comcast.net.

 

Please call or e-mail Andy Burch with any questions that you may have and if your city is participating in this special celebration.

 

Semper Fi,

 

Johnny Baker

National Commandant / CEO

Marine Corps League