The Purple Heart Trail

Reflecting back on our forty-two (42) day motorcycle trip, I keep thinking about a particular sign that was on several different  roads that we travelled.

"THE PURPLE HEART TRAIL"

As we were riding, from time to time I would see this sign. I wanted to know what it was so I decided to Google it. This is what I learned. There was also this quote on some of the sites.

"As you travel the Purple Heart Trails, take a moment to remember the sacrifices that have been paid for our nation's freedom."

It's purpose is to create a symbolic & honorary system of roads, highways, bridges, etc that give tribute to the men and to the women who have been wounded, killed and may have been awarded the Purple Heart Medal. It is also done by creating a visual reminder to travellers that others paid a high price. 

The trail was established in 1992 by the Military Order of the Purple Heart. It starts at a monument in Mt. Vernon, Virginia and at present is in all 50 states and also in Guam and Puerto Rico. 

I first noticed it in California on the Pacific Coast Highway which is route 101. Jim said that he noticed it around Arizona on Interstate I- 40. The last time that I saw it was at the Delaware Welcome Center Travel Plaza in Newark, Delaware when we were trying to get home. I am glad I decided to get information on these signs.