The Purple Heart was established by George Washington at Newburgh, N.Y., on Aug. 7, 1782, during the Revolutionary War and was re-established in 1932 by the president of the United States.

The month of August was Purple Heart Month, and Aug. 7 was Purple Heart Day. The Joshua Chamberlain Chapter 1865 is the local chapter and meetings are held on a monthly basis in Bangor.

I have been the campaign manager for the past four years and each year our campaign has increased. Our latest 2001 campaign goal was $2,500, which we achieved. Without the support of Wal-Mart, Shaw’s, Paradis in Brewer, Marden’s and the Cole Land Transportation Museum, also the Patriots of 1865 and with special thanks to the people from Bangor, Brewer and surrounding towns for their help. Thanks also to the Patriots Lane, Rossignol, Moore and Jim McGrath. The money collected will be used to run the organization and help many organizations in the local area.

Dick Giffard

Brewer