Introducing The Turn Portage Purple Campaign

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Homefront Heroes is proud to announce the launch of a historic new initiative: the Turn Portage Purple Campaign. In partnership with Gold Star Mother Linda Dillon, who lost her son, Benjamin C. Dillon, in 2007, this campaign represents one of the most meaningful efforts our organization has ever undertaken. Together, we will work closely with the Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH) national chapter to pursue an official designation of Portage County as a Purple Heart County. This effort will involve engaging key community stakeholders, lobbying local elected officials, and building broad public support to ensure that Portage County becomes the first in our area to receive this distinguished honor. By turning Portage purple, we aim to create a lasting tribute to our combat-wounded and fallen heroes—one that reflects our county’s deep respect for military service and sacrifice.

Achieving Purple Heart County status will bring meaningful recognition to the veterans and families who have borne the heaviest burdens of war. The designation will honor Purple Heart recipients and Gold Star families through official proclamations, signage along county roads and buildings, and public ceremonies that highlight the true cost of freedom. It will raise community awareness of the sacrifices made by those wounded or killed in combat, promote patriotism and unity, and foster a spirit of gratitude throughout Portage County. Most importantly, this campaign will serve as a source of pride—both for the veterans who have given so much, and for a community committed to standing with them. Through the Turn Portage Purple Campaign, Homefront Heroes is dedicated to ensuring that their courage is never forgotten.

We will officially kick off our lobbying and outreach campaign in January 2026. To get involved in this project, feel free to email us by clicking the "contact us" tab.