Fall River honors heroes on National Purple Heart Day

The city of Fall River held a poignant ceremony to commemorate National Purple Heart Day, honoring the sacrifices of veterans and their families. The event, led by Talos Ferris, the new director of veterans services, included the presence of Gold Star family members and Purple Heart recipients, emphasizing the community's commitment to recognizing their bravery.

Mayor of Fall River opened the ceremony by expressing gratitude to the attendees and highlighting the significance of the Purple Heart Medal, awarded to service members wounded or killed in action. He reaffirmed the city's dedication to remembering the courage and sacrifices of these individuals, stating, \"The courage and sacrifice shown by each and every recipient will never be forgotten in this city.\"

The ceremony featured heartfelt speeches from attendees, including Gold Star brother Bob Tavares, who shared his emotional tribute to his brother, a Vietnam veteran who lost his life in 1969. Tavares expressed the importance of remembering those who did not return home, stating, \"It's very hard for me to talk about this even after all these years... but I still get emotional.\"

The event concluded with a reading of a prepared speech that underscored the significance of the day, recognizing the valor of those who have served in the U.S. armed forces. The ceremony served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by veterans and the ongoing commitment of the community to honor their legacy.