New England College received an honor of its own Monday afternoon for its support of men and women who have been awarded Purple Heart decorations within the college community.
NEC became known as a Purple Heart College, joining a national network of institutions that honor the courage and sacrifice of America’s service members who have been wounded or killed in combat. The ceremony included Gov. Kelly Ayotte, Rep. Maggie Goodlander (NH-02) and U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam veteran Al Varelas of the Western Massachusetts Military Order of the Purple Heart.
The college was founded in 1946 to serve servicemen and women attending college on the GI Bill after World War II.
Varelas spoke about the work he does for the Military Order of the Purple Heart, and mentioned how important it was to recognize NEC for its sustained support of Purple Heart recipients and veterans.
He presented special road signs and designated parking spot signs for NEC to place around campus to honor those who served and were injured, wounded or died while in service.
“The sign I designed specially for the college and I appreciated being up here and welcoming the college into the Purple Heart family,” Varilas said.
Massachusetts Military Order of the Purple Heart designed and gave signs to NEC after becoming a Purple Heart College. Credit: ALEXANDER RAPP / Monitor
Rep. Goodlander, who also served in the military in the United States Naval Reserve, said the ceremony and recognition was both a homecoming and a step toward connecting with the other Purple Heart communities around the state.
“I don’t think there is any more courageous and profound act of love than to give your life for your country and for your fellow citizens, and that is what we are celebrating this afternoon,” she said.
