Somerville was named a Purple Heart City in 2023 . — Photo by Bobbie Toner

Wednesday, August 7 is National Purple Heart Day, which recognizes the nation’s oldest military medal, awarded to U.S. Armed Forces Service Members who were wounded or killed in combat. Here’s how local Purple Heart recipients are being honored in Somerville:

• The Purple Heart Flag will be raised Monday, August 5 at City Hall and will remain through the week.
• City Hall and Prospect Hill Tower will be illuminated in purple every evening after sunset during the week.
• Gateway entrance signs recognizing Somerville as a Purple Heart City will be installed at:
• 51 Main St. 
• Boston Ave @ Mystic Valley Parkway
• Cameron @ Tannery Brook Row

Somerville was named a Purple Heart City in 2023 by the Military Order of the Purple Heart organization. The city joins more than 100 municipalities in Massachusetts and even more nationwide, and was added as a stop on the national Purple Heart Trail.

Looking for a way to honor those who have served? Somerville’s 2025 Memorial Day parade is seeking committee members to help plan next year’s festivities. For more information or to volunteer, email veterans@somervillema.gov.