Washington Parish Proclaimed “Purple Heart Parish”

Published 8:00 am Wednesday, July 30, 2025

CARIE EDWARDS
CORRESPONDENT TO THE DAILY NEWS

Washington Parish formally embraced its status as a Purple Heart Parish in a heartfelt ceremony held at 4:30 PM Monday at the Washington Parish Courthouse. The official proclamation was led by State Senator Beth Mizell, Parish President Ryan Seal, and members of the Washington Parish Council, alongside recipients, families, veterans’ organizations, and community members.
The Purple Heart-one of the U.S. military’s most distinguished honors awarded to service members wounded or killed in action-now carries the added distinction of being permanently recognized throughout Washington Parish. The designation affirms the community’s deep gratitude and commitment to honoring the sacrifices of its veterans and their families.
“This is an opportunity for our community to come together and acknowledge the courage and sacrifice of our service members,” said Senator Mizell. Authorities emphasized the call for public nomination of all known Purple Heart recipients connected to Washington Parish-living or deceased-in order to include their names in the ceremony and archival records.
During the event, Parish officials recognized local recipients and invited families to come forward. The ceremony included remarks from local dignitaries and veterans, patriotic music, and flags flown in tribute to each individual honored.
Parish Council Chairwoman Kim Wagner, who helped coordinate the ceremony, spoke about the importance of public acknowledgment of military sacrifice. “By becoming a Purple Heart Parish, we publicly affirm our deep appreciation and lasting gratitude for the sacrifices made by our military heroes,” she said.
The ceremony drew veterans, local leaders, and families in a display of unity and respect-underscoring a local commitment to honoring valor and preserving community history. With this designation, Washington Parish joins cities and communities nationwide that maintain lasting tributes to those injured or killed in service.
As the event concluded, organizers expressed hope that future generations in Washington Parish will continue to remember and honor the legacy of those who bore wounds in defense of our freedoms.