LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – A crowd of veterans filled Memorial Circle at Texas Tech Wednesday morning to observe National Purple Heart Day.

The Purple Heart is the oldest military medal and is awarded for injuries or deaths sustained in combat.

Several people spoke, including representatives from Texas Tech’s military and veterans programs and the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Chapter 0900.

“Today is National Purple Heart Day, the day of wounded veterans whose deaths are remembered and honored in the media,” said Steven Oien of the chapter. “I think it’s a great way to remind people of the sacrifices the military makes.”

The ceremony was hosted by Texas Tech, the only Purple Heart-awarded university in Texas.

The ceremony included a three-gun salute and the raising of the flag. After the flags were raised, three shots were fired.

Since 1782, over 1.8 million Purple Heart medals have been awarded to those who have served, including numerous Red Raiders.

University President Lawrence Schovanec spoke about the event and Texas Tech’s role in honoring these heroes.

“It’s so wonderful to be here with so many veterans to honor all the veterans who have been wounded in combat and all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” Schovanec said. “When we read the list of all the Red Raiders who have received the Purple Heart, it makes you very proud of the tradition that Texas Tech has.”

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