Independence Community College was recently designated a Purple Heart College by the Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH). This designation is in recognition of the College’s support of military members, including veterans and their families.
As a Purple Heart College, ICC will be installing “Purple Heart College” signage at the entrances to the Main and West campuses. The College is also working to reserve parking near the Administration building for members of the military.
ICC President George Knox signed a resolution ahead of the small designation ceremony on Friday, November 6, 2020, making the designation official. He was joined by Walt Schley, past Commander of the Missouri Chapter of the Military Order of the Purple Heart.
“ICC is fully committed to serving all military members and their families,” said Dr. Vincent Bowhay, Vice President for Student Affairs. “As we work towards a more perfect union as a country, ICC will continue to develop policies and practices that make educational goals attainable for all those who have served.”
Originally awarded as the Badge of Military Merit by General George Washington in 1782, the Purple Heart is the oldest U.S. military award still presented. General Douglas MacArthur revived the award and renamed it the Purple Heart on the 150th anniversary of Washington’s creation in 1932; it is now presented to service members of the United States Armed Forces who have been wounded or made the ultimate sacrifice in combat. More than 1.9 million Purple Hearts have since been awarded.
Visit the ICC website for more information on military educational benefits and resources.