(KMZA)--Nemaha County has officially been proclaimed a Purple Heart County.

The County Commission approved the proclamation during its April 20th Monday, giving the county the special designation in honor of combat-wounded veterans.

As part of the proclamation, August 7th will now be recognized each year as Purple Heart Day in Nemaha County. Residents are encouraged to observe the day with ceremonies, the display of the American flag, and other expressions of gratitude and recognition.

The designation also aligns with a broader statewide effort. Kansas was officially named a Purple Heart State on March 12th, reinforcing its commitment to honoring those wounded or killed in combat.

The Purple Heart remains the nation’s oldest military decoration still in use, awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who are wounded or killed in action while serving their country.