The South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs (SCDVA) and the City of Columbia are partnering for a special joint proclamation presentation honoring Purple Heart recipients and kicking off Purple Heart Viola Week, which runs from Aug. 7 through Aug. 14.
The ceremony will take place on Friday, Aug. 7 at 10 a.m. at The Nest, at Finlay Park (930 Laurel Street) in downtown Columbia. The location carries significant historic meaning as Finlay Park is designated as South Carolina’s first Purple Heart Park, making it a fitting backdrop for state and local leaders to recognize combat-wounded service members across the Palmetto State.
During the presentation, SCDVA Secretary Todd B. McCaffrey will present an official state proclamation to the Department of South Carolina, Military Order of the Purple Heart, on behalf of Governor Henry McMaster. Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann will also present a city proclamation honoring the occasion…