For the men and women who have been wounded in combat, the sudden shift from military life to civilian life can be especially difficult. After sacrificing so much while serving their country, injured veterans often face long uphill battles on their road to recovery. While many show outward signs of their injuries and bear bodily scars, many more are wounded internally, in their hearts and minds. These men and women often witnessed horrific tragedies and yet they fail to receive the treatment and help they truly deserve and need. Some go on to develop PTSD or depression and all too often they end up suffering in silence.
Many veterans return home and successfully resume a normal civilian life but countless others struggle with the transition. There are many organizations, charities, support groups, and local community members who want to raise awareness and help those veterans readjust to life outside the military. They offer medical and financial assistance, job training, special housing for those who return disabled, counseling, and much more!
Recently the Wounded Warriors Family Support Organization wrote that in America today “There are an estimated 1.8 million Purple Heart recipients, combat wounded service members who have transitioned back into civilian life.” The organization noted that many of these veterans often go unrecognized by society and without help, and as such our country can do a whole heck of a lot more for them.
Which is why the organization has decided to offer ‘Combat Wounded Parking Signs’ to local businesses across the country who wish to offer reserved parking spaces for those injured in combat. The signs feature a prominent Purple Heart image along with the words ‘combat wounded’ and ‘reserved’ written in purple to clearly signify what it all means. In addition, all of the reserved spots will be painted purple which helps to attract more attention and the signs can be obtained free of charge from the organization.
So far the parking spots and signs have attracted positive interest and both veterans and civilians alike have welcomed and hailed them as a great idea. One social media user commented online “Priorities well placed! Even if the spot is empty, a good reminder for those who walk by.” Now that the word is out and more and more spots are popping up across the country, the concept is steadily gaining and bringing much needed attention to the plight of our nation’s veterans.
The next time you see a purple parking spot, don’t park in it unless you have a Purple Heart! It’s just one small act of respect and acknowledgment that our veteran’s so clearly deserve.
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