Citrus County Remembers and Honors Heroes at the Twentieth Annual Purple Heart Ceremony

Today, Saturday, February 21, 2026, the Citrus County Fairgrounds Auditorium was filled with a profound sense of reverence and community spirit. The combat-wounded patriots of the Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776, Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH), hosted the 20th Annual Purple Heart Ceremony, marking two decades of dedication to honoring those who have sacrificed so much for our nation.

This milestone event was more than just a ceremony; it was a powerful testament to Citrus County’s unwavering commitment to its veterans. As the first Purple Heart School District in both the state of Florida and the nation, our community holds a unique responsibility to ensure that the stories of our heroes are told and that their sacrifices are never forgotten.

A Tribute Marked by Legacy and Reverence

The atmosphere inside the auditorium was one of solemnity and deep respect. The ceremony began with a stirring presentation of the colors by the Citrus High School Army JROTC, followed by a masterful performance of patriotic music by the Nature Coast Community Band. Under the direction of Kathy Thompson, the band’s renditions of “The Star-Spangled Banner” and other military tributes provided a moving backdrop to the morning’s events.

This year’s ceremony was especially poignant, as it was dedicated to the memory of Departed Patriot John Carlson. John was a steadfast member of Chapter 776 and a true embodiment of the Purple Heart spirit. Though his presence was deeply missed, his legacy of service and brotherhood was felt throughout the room.

The History and Significance of the Purple Heart

One of the hallmarks of this annual event is the historical perspective provided by Chapter 776 Adjutant Curt Ebitz. His presentation on the history of the Purple Heart, originally established by General George Washington as the “Badge of Military Merit” in 1782, serves as a reminder that this is our nation’s oldest military award still given to U.S. service members.

The Purple Heart is not a medal that anyone “wins” or seeks out; it is a decoration that is “earned” through blood and sacrifice. It represents the courage of those who were wounded in combat and the ultimate sacrifice of those who were killed in action. Hearing the names of our local fallen heroes read aloud is always a sobering moment that brings the true cost of freedom into sharp focus.

Honoring Veterans Through Education

As a member of the Citrus County School Board, I am immensely proud of the role our students and staff play in this ceremony. One of the most impressive and moving displays of support for our heroes and veterans was the collection of individual display boards created by every school in Citrus County. Each school researched and honored veterans connected to its own campus, and these thoughtfully designed tributes lined both walls of the auditorium.

As guests entered, they were surrounded by stories of courage, sacrifice, and service. The visual impact was striking. From one end of the auditorium to the other, the walls told the stories of men and women whose lives are forever linked to our schools and our community. These displays were far more than projects; they were bridges between generations.

By researching the lives of veterans and creating these tributes, our students gain a deeper understanding of patriotism, service, and the cost of freedom. Each school in Citrus County has a dedicated Purple Heart liaison, ensuring that the connection between our veterans and our youth remains strong throughout the year. Seeing our JROTC cadets and students standing tall in honor of our veterans gives me great hope for the future of our country. They are learning firsthand that the freedoms they enjoy today were secured by the brave men and women seated before them.

A Grateful Community

The ceremony reached its emotional peak with the solemn laying of the Purple Heart Wreath. This year, Chapter 776 Patriot Jerry Frease and other honored guests led the procession. The rifle salute echoed across the fairgrounds, followed by the haunting strains of “Taps,” a sound that never fails to bring a tear to the eye and a lump to the throat.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to the Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776 for their tireless work in organizing this signature event. Their dedication to supporting fellow veterans and educating the community is truly inspiring. Special gratitude also goes to the Citrus County Fairgrounds for hosting us, and to the many volunteers and sponsors who made this day possible.

Those Who Served to Make This Happen

The success of this annual event was made possible in part by the unwavering support of the Citrus County School District, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Scott Hebert, and the Citrus County School Board. Special thanks are extended to Darrick Buettner, Director of Specialty Programs for Citrus County Schools; Dr. Al Balk, Supervisor of Instructional Materials; and Diedra Newton, District Assistant, along with the many others who contributed to the event’s organization and execution and played key roles in ensuring its success.

The Citrus County School District is immensely proud to be not only a Purple Heart Entity but also the first school district in the state of Florida and the nation to earn this recognition. The district remains steadfast in its commitment to honoring the “Proud Legacy of the Purple Heart” and supporting Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776 in its mission to recognize and celebrate combat-wounded veterans.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Aaron A. Weaver Chapter 776, Military Order of the Purple Heart; Commander Richard Hunt; Adjutant Curt Ebitz; Chaplain Gary Bain; the Nature Coast Community Band; and all those who dedicated their time and effort to making this ceremony a meaningful and memorable event.

The Legacy Continues

As we reflect on twenty years of this ceremony, we are reminded that our work is never done. We must continue to support our veterans not just on special occasions, but every day.

We are honored to stand with our combat-wounded warriors and their families. Their bravery is our inspiration, and their sacrifice is our motivation to build a community and a school system that reflect the values they fought to protect.

God bless our Purple Heart honorees, our veterans and their families, our military and their families, our school district, and our great nation. The legacy of the Purple Heart will continue to be honored and cherished in Citrus County, ensuring that the sacrifices of our brave men and women are never forgotten.

Follow this link to see all the schools’ Vet Boards – https://photos.app.goo.gl/MqZy8R5EEbyHvL3y7

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