Purple Heart parking initiative launched
Joint effort between Parking Services and Office of Military and Veteran Services to support and honor Purple Heart recipients
Posted on: November 12, 2019; Updated on: November 12, 2019
By Koby Padgett, kpadgett@sc.edu, 803-576-6701
Purple Heart recipients, those who have given so much while serving in the United States military, get access to better parking thanks to a new initiative from the University of South Carolina.
The Purple Heart parking initiative, launched across the Columbia campus, comes with a dedicated parking space adjacent to the Horseshoe next to the World War Memorial building at Pendleton and Sumter streets in the C1 lot. A new parking pass level also launches along with the symbolic space, which is ADA van compliant. The space is set apart with a special paint job and sign provided by Carl Lopez, commander of the South Carolina Department of the Military Order of the Purple Heart.
“This is a great day for veterans and warfighters at the University of South Carolina,” remarked Jared Evans, director of military engagement and veteran initiatives. “The dedicated parking spot, along with the permits, is one small way we can honor and recognize combat wounded veterans in the UofSC community, and it speaks to the enhanced commitment we’ve made to serving those who serve.”
Since 1782 in the latter part of the American Revolution, the U.S. military has bestowed the Purple Heart medal to service members that have been wounded or killed in combat. In 1932, the Purple Heart medal received its modern name and appearance. More than 1.8 million Purple Heart medals have been presented to our military heroes.
All Purple Heart recipients, whether student, faculty or staff, are eligible to purchase
the permit and can get information regarding the new pass level and its privileges
by contacting Parking Services at 803-777-5160 or by stopping by the Parking Services
office in the Pendleton Street Garage at Pendleton and Pickens streets.
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