ASSEMBLY MILITARY AND VETERANS' AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

 

STATEMENT TO

 

ASSEMBLY JOINT RESOLUTION No. 60

 

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

 

DATED:  OCTOBER 21, 2024

 

      The Assembly Military and Veterans' Affairs Committee reports favorably Assembly Joint Resolution No. 60.

      This resolution declares New Jersey a “Purple Heart State.”

     New Jersey veterans and active duty military members have fought selflessly to preserve our nation’s freedom, with many being wounded or killed while in the line of duty. The Purple Heart Medal is awarded in the name of the President to veterans and active duty military members who have been wounded or killed while serving in our nation’s Armed Forces. The recipients of the Purple Heart Medal deserve recognition and honor for the bravery that recipients have shown while serving our nation.

     Three states, including West Virginia, Virginia, and Washington, are declared “Purple Heart States.” Parts of 45 states are part of the “Purple Heart Trail,” a symbolic and honorary system of roads, highways, bridges and other monuments that give tribute to the veterans and active duty military members who have been awarded the Purple Heart Medal. New Jersey has multiple counties, cities, and locations that are part of the “Purple Heart Trail.” The “Purple Heart Trail” was established at the 1992 Military Order of the Purple Heart convention, which was held in Cherry Hill, New Jersey.

     Declaring New Jersey a “Purple Heart State” honors the contributions and sacrifices of the New Jersey service members who have received the Purple Heart Medal. Purple Heart Medal recipients from the State have been vital in maintaining the freedoms and way of life enjoyed by the State’s citizens.

     The people of New Jersey have great respect, admiration, and the utmost gratitude for all of the service members who have selflessly served our country and the State. Therefore, it is altogether fitting and proper to declare New Jersey a “Purple Heart State.”

      This bill was prefiled for introduction in the 2024-2025 session pending technical review.  As reported, the bill includes the changes required by technical review, which has been performed.

      As reported by the committee, Assembly Joint Resolution No. 60 is identical to Senate Joint Resolution No. 103, which was also reported by the committee on this date.