Tim Hortons in Lakewood will honor Purple Heart Veterans on August 7, also known as Purple Heart Day. This celebration, held at 277 East Fairmount Avenue, marks the second year the location will recognize these brave men and women.
Purple Heart Day honors those who have been wounded in combat or died in service. Jack Shea, who initiated this event last year while interning, is leading the celebration again this year. The event will start at 11 a.m. on August 7.
“Purple Heart Day has been a national holiday for only 10 years, making it relatively new,” said Shea. “This motivates me to hold the ceremony at our Tim Hortons in Lakewood to raise awareness. We want to honor Purple Heart Veterans, all veterans, and active duty personnel.”
Shea emphasized the importance of this day for Americans to recognize and thank those who have risked or lost their lives in service. He noted that last year’s event was successful but had some issues they have worked on improving for this year.
“Last year’s event went well, but we had some timing issues,” Shea said. “A year ago, I hadn’t even heard of this holiday. This year, we’ve had more time to plan and reach out to military resources and the media to ensure more Purple Heart Veterans attend.”
Shea invites all local Purple Heart Veterans to attend the event. Those who come will receive free coffee and a sandwich. A ceremony will kick off the event.
“We want Purple Heart Veterans to know they are welcome,” Shea said. “Even if they don’t want recognition or special treatment, we will accommodate their wishes. They can come for coffee and leave if they prefer not to stay for the ceremony.”
Shea stressed the importance of recognizing Purple Heart Day and hopes more people will come to appreciate it. This day, like Veterans Day and Memorial Day, offers a chance to thank veterans and active duty personnel.
“These men and women bring honor and pride to our nation, and we need to appreciate that,” Shea said. “Although holidays like Purple Heart Day, Veterans Day, and Memorial Day are only one day, we should recognize our veterans every day, even if it’s just a simple thank you.”
Shea thanked Blake Tarana and the Tim Hortons team for their support. The Purple Heart Day ceremony will run from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., but free coffee and a sandwich for Purple Heart Veterans will be available all day.
“If you can’t make the ceremony, you can still come later for the free coffee and sandwich,” Shea said. “We just ask for verification of the Purple Heart. I can’t wait to see you all there.”