The state of New York is now designated as a “Purple Heart State.”
On Nov. 5, the bi-partisan legislation primarily sponsored by Assemblyman John McDonald and co-sponsored by Mohawk Valley representative, Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon, together with seven other Assembly members and 17 state senators, New York State Assembly Bill A029, a/k/a New York State Senate Bill S1889 designating the state of New York as a ‘Purple Heart State’ was passed by both bodies and signed into law by Governor of New York, Kathy Hochul.
“This recognition speaks to the heart of who we are as New Yorkers and as a nation. We believe in service, in community, and in standing up for those who stood up for us.,” said Buttenschon in a statement. “It is my hope that by designating New York as a Purple Heart State, we are sending a clear message: your sacrifices will never be forgotten, and your service will forever be honored.”
New York State Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon (D 119th) poses with members of CNY Chapter #490 Military Order of the Purple Heart in a Flag Day Celebration Ceremony on June 14th 2025.
New York joins the State of Ohio in codifying its commitment to members of the United States Armed Services who are wounded or killed in combat in service to their country. The Empire State is also one of 45 U.S. States with the U.S. Territory of Guam to have formally designated state roads, highways, bridges, and other monuments to the men and women who have been awarded The Purple Heart, with portions of Interstate Highway 84 dedicated to recipients of the Purple Heart. This “symbolic and honorary” system of remembrance and gratitude is known as “The Purple Heart Trail.”
In her statement, Buttenschon invoked the words of John F. Kennedy, “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”
This article originally appeared on Observer-Dispatch: New York designated “Purple Heart State” approaching Veterans Day 2025