This week, both the City of Troy and Pike County declared themselves “Purple Heart” communities.

The designation,which is voluntary, is a recognition of the dedication and sacrifice made by military veterans.

Organized nationally by the Military Order of the Purple Heart and led locally by veteran and businessman K.T. Cole, the effort to establish the designations is part of an ongoing national push.

The concept is simple: by declaring themselves “Purple Heart” communities, the city and county have made a public acknowledgement of their appreciation and recognition of local veterans and their service.

The designation pays special tribute to the nearly 2 million servicemen and women who have been killed or injured in combat and honors local and national Purple Heart recipients.

We think it’s an excellent move for both governmental agencies to make. The simple designation costs nothing to make, but its value is unmeasurabele. Saying a public “thank you” and appreciating the men and women who served to protect our freedom is the least we can do.

We salute both the city and county for making Troy and Pike County “Purple Heart” communities.

We proud to be a part of this effort.