Manson named Purple Heart community

Manson named "Purple Heart" community by proclamation of the Chelan County Commissioners, April 20. Commissioner Kevin Overbay, front left, Commission Chair Shon Smith, and Commissioner Brad Hawkins. American Legion Post 108 Vice Commander Brian Strausbaugh, rear left, Post Service Officer Norm Manly.

Manson has been officially named a “Purple Heart” community by proclamation of the Chelan County Commissioners.

The proclamation was read by Commissioner Brad Hawkins and unanimously approved by the board of commissioners at their legislative meeting, April 20.

"We as a community recognize how important veterans are," American Legion Post 108 Service Officer Norm Manly told KOZI.

"The American Legion was formed in 1919, and Manson, ours was 1923," Manly told the commissioners. "We're out their to help veterans. I served in the Navy from '61 to '64, got out just before Vietnam was really going on, but I had friends that were wounded, I had friends that died and for me it's so important we never forget them."

"I think, overall veterans, active and retired, and those that gave the ultimate sacrifice, there's not enough recognition in my opinion for the veterans and their service as well," said American Legion Post 108 Vice commander Brian Strausbaugh.

A welcoming sign to Manson, a Purple Heart community, will be erected soon.

Save the date, August 7^, for the first annual Purple Heart recognition day in Manson.