A Mayoral proclamation on May 21, 2012 detailed the City's dedication "to the call to duty by recognizing and honoring those brave patriots who bear the Purple Heart Medal." The Purple Heart was the first American service award or decoration made available to the common soldier and is specifically awarded to any member of the United States Armed Services wounded or killed in combat with a declared enemy of the United States. Port Hueneme has a large population of highly decorated military members, active duty and retired, as well as Purple Heart recipients, living in our community.

Purple Heart Cities have been established across the United States through the efforts of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, chartered by an Act of Congress to support combat-wounded veterans and their families, promote patriotism, support legislative initiatives, and most importantly – make sure we never forget. In joining them, Port Hueneme honors the service and sacrifice of our nation’s men and women in uniform, wounded or killed by the enemy while serving to protect the freedoms enjoyed by all Americans.