BUFFALO, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--On Friday, November 20, 2015, the National Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Robert J. Puskar will present the Order’s “National Commander’s Award” to one of Buffalo’s most patriotic citizens and himself a veteran, Russell Salvatore. This award is given in recognition of his devotion to the betterment of his fellow citizens and the community in which he lives, and for his selfless commitment to honor the service and sacrifice of America’s sons and daughters in the United States Armed Forces by creating the “Patriots and Heroes Park” in Lancaster, New York. It is with sincere appreciation that the Military Order of the Purple Heart recognizes his dedicated contributions to the veterans of America, especially those who were killed or wounded by the enemies of the United States on the battlefield and for which they received our nation’s oldest decoration, the Purple Heart medal. Mr. Salvatore’s “Tribute to the Purple Heart,” designed and created by Donald Parrino, now stands in Hero’s Park in recognition of their service and sacrifice.
The ceremony will take place at 11:00 am at the Salvatore Grand Hotel, 6675 Transit Road, Williamsville, New York 14221. The media is invited to join us for this special recognition of one of Buffalo’s most respected veterans, philanthropists, and patriots.
The "Military Order of the Purple Heart of the U.S.A. Inc.," (MOPH) was formed in 1932 for the protection and mutual interest of all combat wounded veterans and active duty men and women who have received the decoration. Chartered by the Congress, The MOPH is unique among Veteran Service Organizations in that all its members were wounded in combat. For this sacrifice, they were awarded the Purple Heart Medal. With grants from the MOPH Service Foundation, the MOPH and its Ladies Auxiliary promote Patriotism, Fraternalism, and the Preservation of America's military history. Most importantly, through veteran service, they provide comfort and assistance to all Veterans and their families, especially those requiring claims assistance with the VA, those who are homeless, and those requiring employment assistance. Programs of the MOPH include VA Volunteer Service, JROTC Leadership Awards, Scholarships, Americanism, Purple Heart Trail and Cities, Welfare, and numerous community service programs, all with the objective of service to Veterans and their families.
