November 6, 2026
The West Liberty City Council and Mayor have officially recognized West Liberty as a Purple Heart Community, honoring military service members from West Liberty and surrounding communities who were wounded or lost their lives while serving in the United States Armed Forces. 
The designation recognizes the sacrifices made by Purple Heart recipients and their families and reflects the community’s commitment to remembering and honoring those who have served our nation with extraordinary courage.
During the meeting, city staff explained that becoming a Purple Heart Community will allow West Liberty to participate in the national Purple Heart Trail program, which was established by the Military Order of the Purple Heart in 1992. The purpose of the Purple Heart Trail is to create a symbolic and honorary network of roads, highways, bridges, communities, and monuments that pay tribute to recipients of the Purple Heart Medal. The program serves as a visible reminder of the sacrifices made by military members in defense of our freedoms.
As part of this recognition, West Liberty plans to install Purple Heart Trail signage throughout the community and create a permanent display honoring local veterans and their service. These efforts will help preserve veterans’ stories and ensure future generations understand the sacrifices made on behalf of our country. In his address, Mayor Mark Smith stated, “We want to honor you not only today, but in days to come, into the future, so that as people see the signs and the evidence that we’re a Purple Heart community, they ask questions and they learn more about what you did for our country and for our community.”
The Purple Heart Medal is awarded to members of the U.S. military who have been wounded or killed as a result of enemy action. Through participation in the Purple Heart Trail program, communities across the nation demonstrate their commitment to honoring these heroes and preserving their legacy.
For more information about the Purple Heart Trail program, visit the Military Order of the Purple Heart website at www.purpleheart.org/PurpleHeartTrail.
