Northborough Salutes Purple Heart Recipients

Northborough has saluted its veterans, exactly one week before Veterans Day.

Selectmen voted unanimously Monday night to proclaim Northborough a Purple Heart Community.

"Thank you very much. This brings tears to my eyes," said Edward Donnelly, department inspector for the Massachusetts Military Order of the Purple Heart.

Donnelly, who requested the proclamation, said the  Massachusetts Military Order of the Purple Heart is trying to "designate certain cities and towns" as Purple Heart Communities.

Northborough is the 11th or 12th community to consider the request, he said.

Donnelly said he knows of five or six Northborough residents who are Purple Heart recipients.

"It's one of those medals that you really never wanted to get," said Donnelly, who received the Purple Heart during the Vietnam War.

Selectman Jeff Amberson said that "obviously, we owe a debt of gratitude not just to Purple Heart (recipients) but to all the veterans."

"I fortunately was lucky. I didn't die. But others in this town have," Donnelly replied.

Donnelly said he selectmen's decision will go to his organization's national headquarters, in Virginia. 

A framed plaque will be made, and presented to the town.