CDR Randall Fiebrandt, USCG (Ret)

The Purple Heart was instituted in 1782 by George Washington and is the first American decoration.
Originally it was awarded for bravery in action, currently it is awarded to those wounded or killed in action, in the latter case posthumously.

An Oak Leaf Cluster is added when a previously wounded person already has a Purple Heart. The decoration is a purple, heart-shaped badge with bronze edges. It depicts in relief a bust of George Washington wearing the uniform of a general in the Continental Army. On the reverse side is the inscription: “For Military Merit” with the recipient’s name below. It is estimated that just for World War II 1,076,245 Purple Hearts were awarded.

Go to www.thepurpleheart.com to find a list of recipients. To join our local Chapter 400 Order of the Purple Heart,

contact David Mercado email: davidmercado026@gmail.com,

or our very own MOAA Chapter member CAPT (ret) Rich Sloane email: richardtsloane@gmail.com

The time for Florida families to plan is TODAY.

Now is a great opportunity for your family to stock your disaster supply kits with vital supplies like a first aid kit, a radio, flashlights, batteries and other necessities. Your kit should also include 7 days’ worth of food and water, prescription medications, and any important documents. See attached flyer.

Before a Storm

• Prepare an evacuation plan & make sure everyone in your home knows the plan.
• Stock up on emergency supplies, including:
  • Water – You will need water for drinking, cooking, and sanitation purposes. Pack a minimum of 1 gallon daily per person for 7 days.
  • Food – You will need enough food for a minimum of 7 days:
    • Non-perishable packaged or canned food and juices
      • Manual can opener.
    • Foods for individuals with dietary restrictions (i.e., infants, elderly, etc.)
    • Snack foods
    • Cooking tools and fuel
    • Paper plates and plastic utensils
  • Flashlight, Extra Batteries, and Cell Phone Battery Power Device
  • Pillows, Blankets and/or Sleeping Bags
  • Clothing – Include a complete change of clothes suitable for your area’s climate. Be sure to include sturdy shoes to protect you from debris or other sharp objects you may encounter outdoors post-storm
  • First Aid Kit, Prescription Medication and Other Medicines
  • Radio – Battery operated and NOAA weather radio
  • Toiletries
  • Cleaning Supplies – Include garbage bags, moisture wipes, and other items you may need to sanitize your home or surrounding post-disaster
  • Special Items – Assess the needs of all family members. Consider other items needed for infants, elderly, and individuals with access and functional needs (i.e., medical items, baby bottles, etc.)
  • Cash – Banks and ATMs may not be open or available for extended periods following a disaster
  • Toys, Books and Games
  • Important Documents – Consider storing all critical documents in a waterproof container, as well as saving them electronically. These items can include, but are not limited to, insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc.
  • Tools
  • Pet Care Items
    • Proper identification/ immunization records
    • Ample supply of food and water
    • Carrier or cage
    • Medications
    • Muzzle and leash
    • Photo of you and your pet(s) – in the event that you are separated from your pet, having an updated photo with your pet will help validate pet ownership
• If you have been told to evacuate, EVACUATE. Don’t stay behind. We can rebuild a home, but we can’t rebuild a life.

See Printable or Downloadable Hurricane Flyer Here