WARREN–The city has been officially recognized as a Purple Heart City, joining Youngstown in Ohio’s Mahoning Valley to honor veterans who have received the Purple Heart medal for their sacrifices in combat.

A new sign marking the designation was unveiled along Route 422 at the city limit on National Purple Heart Day, Thursday, featuring a purple heart medal and the words “Purple Heart City, Warren, Ohio.”

The recognition highlights Warren’s commitment to honoring its veterans, particularly the approximately 700 Purple Heart recipients in Northeast Ohio and over 55,000 nationwide.

Cari Delgado, director of the Trumbull County Veterans Service Commission, talked about the significance of the designation.

“Being a Purple Heart City is about showing respect for our Purple Heart recipients,” Delgado said. “We have a large veteran population in Trumbull County, and we want them to know they are honored here.”

The sign, initially placed at the Veterans Memorial in downtown Warren in 2022, was relocated to a more prominent spot on Youngstown Road to align with other Purple Heart Trail markers across the country.

Delgado noted that two additional signs are planned for other city entrances, potentially on West Market Street, with locations still under discussion with city officials.

The Purple Heart Trail in the Mahoning Valley also includes the Purple Heart Bridge on Route 18 over Meander Reservoir.

Leo H. Connelly, Jr., a Vietnam War veteran and past commander of the Department of Ohio’s Military Order of the Purple Heart, played a key role in the initiative.

“This sign reminds people of the cost of freedom,” said Connelly, who was wounded in combat in 1967. “I spilled my blood for this country, and I volunteer to honor those who sacrificed their lives.”

Connelly, a member of the local Chapter 606, highlighted the group’s efforts, including awarding four $2,500 scholarships annually to veterans’ children. “We’re in our fifth year of giving scholarships, and it’s all volunteer work,” he said. “The community’s support makes this possible.”

In addition, the newly established Cover Down Fund, a 501(c)(3) non-profit founded by veteran Herm Breuer, is supporting Mahoning Valley veterans with tax-deductible donations. The fund provides grants for educational expenses, home repairs, and support for organizations like VFWs. Its first fundraiser, a golf outing, is scheduled for September 13, 2025, at the Trumbull County Club.

Breuer, reflecting on the Purple Heart City designation, talked about the impact of combat wounds. “We recognize not just those wounded, but their families too,” he said. “A father who lost his legs can’t teach his kids to swim. A mother blinded in combat can’t see her children smile. This sign is a reminder of their sacrifices.