Vintage helicopter sought for Purple Heart Memorial
By Staff
Clif Knight, Hartselle Enquirer
The Finis J. Self Chapter 22 of the Military Order of the Purple Heart is seeking city council approval to locate a demilitarized Army helicopter at the Purple Heart Memorial in John Sparkman Park.
Shaffran said chapter members will cover the costs associated with the helicopter.
Shaffran made a formal request for the city’s help at the last council meeting; however, consideration was delayed pending the resolution of liability and maintenance issues. The request is expected to be put back on the table at the council’s next work session on March 26.
Shaffran said the demilitarization of a piece of Army fighting equipment could run from $225 to $6,000 depending on its size.
Shaffran said the chopper would be anchored to a concrete pad and access would be limited to exterior viewing.
The memorial was started five years ago and today contains the names of nearly 300 Purple Heart recipients. It remains a work in progress. Recently, a pavilion was added and an outside concrete base was installed for its circular brick walkway. Memorial bricks are still available as memorials and honorariums for veterans.
