[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 153 (Monday, September 25, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1260]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




COMMEMORATING THE CITY OF SEMINOLE, FLORIDA ON EARNING THE DESIGNATION 
                         OF A PURPLE HEART CITY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. CHARLIE CRIST

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 25, 2017

  Mr. CRIST. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask the House of 
Representatives to join me in commemorating the City of Seminole, 
Florida on earning the designation of a Purple Heart City.
  The Purple Heart recognizes members of the Armed Service who have 
been wounded or killed while serving our country. It is the oldest 
military decoration awarded by the United States; beginning under 
General George Washington during the Revolutionary War. As originally 
conceived, the award recognizes meritorious military service with the 
Badge of Military Merit. President Washington's merit award was revived 
with the Purple Heart on his 200th Birthday, to honor those who served 
the United States Armed Forces with distinction.
  The City of Seminole first sought to recognize men and women 
currently serving, veterans, and those who gave their lives protecting 
our freedom when the City Council passed the Red, White, and Blue 
initiative in 2014.
  Mayor Leslie Waters and the City of Seminole wanted to display the 
city's patriotism by fitting every city building and park with a 
lighted flag pole. Military members were invited to be present at the 
city's parades and community events, and the city's website was updated 
to provide instructions for the proper display of the American flag for 
businesses and homeowners who wished to join in this celebration of 
patriotism.
  After two years of working towards the Purple Heart designation, 
Mayor Waters secured the honor on March 28, 2017. This distinction 
publicly acknowledges the City of Seminole's gratitude to the men and 
women who have served in our military, and continued commitment to 
recognizing the price they have paid to ensure our freedom. Through 
civic education programs, military community involvement, and public 
works honoring the American flag, the City of Seminole demonstrates its 
commitment to our nation's veterans.
  I would like to commend the city of Seminole in its efforts to honor 
the sacrifices made by our Purple Heart veterans. I am honored and 
humbled to represent so many veterans in the City of Seminole and 
across the 13th United States Congressional District of Florida, which 
is home to over 90,000 veterans and the distinguished C.W. Bill Young 
VA Medical Center in Bay Pines.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me once again to commemorate the City of 
Seminole on gaining the designation of a Purple Heart City, as we 
continue to appreciate and celebrate those who have sacrificed for this 
country.

                          ____________________