FOUNTAIN — The local chapter of The Military Order of the Purple Heart (M.O.P.H) honored combat-wounded Veterans in recognition of National Purple Heart Day.
The first Purple Heart was awarded in the 1700s. It's a military decoration given to veterans wounded or killed in combat.
I spoke with Payton Campbell, who served in the Army for 9 years. He is joining Chapter 423 today.
Campbell was wounded in combat in Afghanistan. He tells me this event reminds him of the sacrifice he made in service to our country.
"It's such an honor to be a part of the group of people that get to say that they are some of the select few that have this. But it's also a sober reminder of the events that took place to get that award," he said.
Mayor Yemi Mobolade spoke to me with passion about the importance of honoring the sacrifices of our Veterans.
"It is not just serving; they have paid the ultimate price. Freedom comes with a cost. And when we say those phrases, it means a lot of different things, but today it has a very physical impact," he said.
Local Chapter 423 has a history of helping Southern Colorado's veterans and their families. They tell me they are encouraging more veterans to join their chapter. Now, the M.O.P.H Chapter 423 is the largest in Colorado, with more than three hundred members.
Watch the video above.
___
Fort Carson Soldier Raises $50K for Cancer Treatment - Gives It All Away to Help Others
Sergeant First Class David Hong battling stage 4 colon cancer raised over $50,000 in three days for experimental treatment, but when Tricare approved coverage, he donated every penny to help other service members and veterans fighting cancer. The Fort Carson religious specialist underwent the innovative histotripsy treatment earlier this month and remains hopeful about the results. His selfless decision shows how one soldier's battle became a mission to help others in their fight against cancer.
____
Watch KOAA News5 on your time, anytime with our free streaming app available for your Roku, FireTV, AppleTV and Android TV. Just search KOAA News5, download and start watching.
