As a part of the Annual Veterans Day activities throughout the Virgin Islands, Purple Heart Veterans will be recognized. The Virgin Islands Office of Veterans Affairs (VA) is asking all Purple Heart recipients to make contact with the office in either district to make their intentions known as it pertains to attendance at the Veterans Day Parade on any of the three islands.
“Being someone who has earned this award because he or she either lost their life or incurred an injury while serving in a combat environment deserves to be recognized. This is one of the most under-recognized groups of veterans, and we intend to change that,” said Director Patrick Farrell.
In addition, any Purple Heart Veteran who would like to march as a group in the Veterans Day Parade on any of the three islands will be allowed to do so. Family members of deceased Purple Heart Veterans are also welcome to take part in honor of their loved ones. Accommodations will be made for any Purple Heart Veteran who is not physically able to march or walk but would like to participate. The only two requirements are: to call the office in his or her district so that The VA can be prepared for the number of veterans that intend to take part and to wear a purple T-shirt/shirt on Veterans Day.
Purple Heart Veterans can call the office in their district at one of the following numbers: 773VETS on St. Croix or 774-VETS on St. Thomas-St. John.
