In Recognition of Service and Sacrifice UNCW has received a solemn distinction–recognition as an official Purple Heart Designated University. This designation affirms the university’s commitment to those who have been wounded or killed by the enemy while serving to protect our freedoms. The Seahawk family includes many Purple Heart Medal recipients among the university’s students, alumni, and current and former faculty and staff. “Since its founding as a G.I. Bill school in 1947, UNC Wilmington has welcomed many veterans through its doors, and some, whether faculty, staff or students, have experienced the harsh realities of engaged hostilities with U.S. enemies and were wounded,” said Bill Kawczynski, director of the UNCW Office of Military Affairs. The Purple Heart Medal is the oldest military decoration, previously known as the Badge of Military Merit, and was awarded to recognize heroic acts by U.S. troops during the Revolutionary War. Today, the Purple Heart Medal is awarded to those wounded or killed in action against an enemy of the United States.
Lt. Gen.Walter E. Gaskin, USMC (Ret) and Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Services, greets Purple Heart recipients at the 2023 Cape Fear Purple Heart Dinner.
David Grange, retired Army major general and Purple Heart honoree
Chancellor Aswani K. Volety attended the Cape Fear Purple Heart Dinner on August 5, and read the official proclamation announcing UNCW as a Purple Heart Designated University. On August 7, the nation honored, recognized and remembered all Purple Heart recipients as part of National Purple Heart Day.
“This is another shining example of how UNC Wilmington supports its military community and is truly ‘Like No Other.’” – Bill Kawczynski
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