University Communications and Marketing

MSU Billings earns Purple Heart University designation

Designation ceremony on Nov. 11

University Communications and Marketing, 657-2266

MSU BILLINGS NEWS— Montana State University Billings has been selected as a recipient of special recognition as a Purple Heart University by The Department of Montana Military Order of the Purple Heart.

A designation ceremony will be held during the Veteran’s Day celebration at MSUB on Nov. 11 following the keynote speakers which begin at 10 a.m. Commander of the Department of Montana Military Order of the Purple Heart, Captain Charles Gatlin (Retired) will present Chancellor Dan Edelman and MSU Billings with this great honor.

The Department of Montana Military Order of the Purple Heart appreciates the university’s long and noble tradition of supporting and honoring military members, their families, and America’s combat wounded veterans, and will bestow this special recognition with great pride to MSUB. Only a handful of universities have been selected to receive this honor. MSU Billings recognizes the sacrifices our veterans make and the trials and tribulations they face as they transition from military service to the academic lifestyle. 

The Purple Heart was created in 1782 by George Washington as the Badge of Military Merit and is the first service award made available to soldiers. It serves as the oldest military decoration still used today. This honor recognizes veterans of the United States Armed Forces who have been wounded or have paid the ultimate sacrifice in combat.

Throughout history, there have been many who joined the military service and risked their lives in the cause of freedom. Today, many combat-wounded veterans who are Purple Heart recipients can be found attending and working at MSU Billings. During the designation ceremony, MSUB will unveil the new Purple Heart parking spots, an initiative designed to aid wounded veterans with designated parking closer to building entrances. These spots will be located campus-wide at both the university and City College campuses. 

This designation recognizes that MSUB actively supports combat-wounded veterans and implements that steadfast support of the military and veterans on campus.

“MSU Billings is proud of our veterans and pledges its dedication to those who have put their lives at risk in combat to protect this country and fellow citizens,” commented Chancellor Edelman. “Earning Purple Heart designation exemplifies our commitment as a university to serve military personnel and veterans.”

Students, faculty, staff, and community members are encouraged to show their support for the sacrifices the Purple Heart recipients have made in defending our freedoms by acknowledging their courage and showing them the honor and support they have rightfully earned. All are invited to an unveiling of the Purple Heart plaque and parking spots on Nov. 11, during the 100 year celebration of Armistice Day.