Lawrence County has always proudly displayed its patriotism, answering the call of duty whenever needed. The latest gesture by the city of Ironton is just another part of that commitment to our nation.

Ironton has given itself the designation as a Purple Heart City, one of only three in the state, as a way of recognizing and honoring our brave men and women who have been injured while serving his or her country.

Although there are some individual recognitions of veterans in Woodland Cemetery, at the Lawrence County Courthouse, at the Proctorville VFW Memorial and other areas, this certainly seems to be a project the entire community should get behind.

As the city moves forward with its plans to tear down Memorial Hall and put a park there, this looks like the perfect opportunity to recognize all the individuals who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

Plans are already in the works to incorporate a portion of the existing structure into the park to recognize veterans. The best way may be to include a monument or other recognition of all those who have ever fought for our great nation.

They stood up for us. Now we must stand up to recognize them.