McHenry County -- First County In State Declared Purple Heart County

Purple Heart monument to be installed in McHenry County

State Sen. Pamela Althoff (R-McHenry) reports that McHenry County has become the first county in the state to be declared a Purple Heart County by proclamation.  McHenry County will also be the first county in the state to install a Purple Heart Monument on county grounds. 

The monument will be installed at the McHenry County Government Center with a dedication ceremony scheduled for August 7, 2014 – National Purple Heart Day.  Althoff said to look for more details to come on the unveiling ceremony and encourages all to attend.

The monument will be furnished at no cost to taxpayers.  Instead, Richard Young – who initiated the designation and monument – has contacted businesses and individuals for donations to assist in the building and installation of the monument.  Chuck Ruth of Alliance Contractors and Anthony Zoia of Zoia Monuments, both of Woodstock, have agreed to install the monument.  If individuals are interested in donating towards the monument, they can contact Richard Young at 815-338-7757.

At the March 4 McHenry County Board meeting, a proclamation designating McHenry County as a Purple Heart County was read by board member Paula Yensen.  A Purple Heart flag was then presented to County Board Chairwoman Tina Hill by Young and McHenry County Undersheriff Andy Zinke. The flag was provided by the Illinois Military Order of the Purple Heart. 

As a Purple Heart County, which was approved by the Illinois Military Order of the Purple Heart, the county is entitled to fly the Purple Heart flag.  The Purple Heart is the oldest military award given to veterans who have either given their lives or have been injured while serving and defending our country. 

Althoff said the Purple Heart distinction and upcoming installation of the monument indicate the county’s reverence for veterans.

“We owe our veterans our deepest gratitude and respect for their service,” Althoff said.  “And for those who were injured in the line of duty or paid the ultimate sacrifice, we can show that respect and reverence.  I support this initiative and the fact that individuals have recognized the need to install a monument to these outstanding men and women.  I’m proud that McHenry County has become the first in these two areas, and I hope that other counties take after its example.”