New Bedford Declared a Purple Heart City, Seeking Purple Heart Recipients

After two years of dedicated efforts, New Bedford has achieved the esteemed recognition as a Purple Heart City, a designation honoring the bravery and sacrifices of local veterans who have been awarded the Purple Heart medal.

This status, a tribute to the men and women injured or killed in combat, emphasizes New Bedford’s commitment to acknowledging and supporting veterans within its community.

To commemorate this milestone, New Bedford will host an inauguration ceremony on December 7, 2024. While the Pearl Harbor Day event’s exact time and location are still being finalized, local officials and veteran advocates are working hard to ensure it becomes a memorable occasion, especially for the city’s Purple Heart recipients.

Bill Comeau, a member of New Bedford’s Veteran Advisory Board and Junior Vice Commander of the local Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter, is spearheading efforts to reach out to Purple Heart recipients from New Bedford. He hopes to honor these veterans by inviting them to the ceremony as special guests. Comeau has requested help from Fun 107 and WBSM to spread the word, inviting Purple Heart recipients to join in this tribute.

Veterans or their families can reach Comeau for more information. He can be contacted directly at his office or via the DAV Chapter Dr. C.E. Burt Chapter 7 in New Bedford. Contact details are as follows:

• Bill Comeau
  • Address: 372 Brooklawn Avenue, New Bedford, MA 02745
  • Email: Alpha6xray@comcast.net
  • Phone: 508-315-7139
• DAV Contact (Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9 AM - Noon)
  • Dr. C.E. Burt Chapter 7, 19 Willis St., New Bedford, MA 02740
  • Phone: 508-992-3766